Five-Day Police Operation Culminates in Dramatic Arrest
In a dramatic conclusion to an intensive five-day search operation, Madhya Pradesh police have finally apprehended the prime accused in the Raisen minor rape case that had triggered significant communal tensions across the district. The arrest of 23-year-old Salman ended a massive manhunt that involved hundreds of police personnel, drones, and substantial reward announcements.
The Dramatic Escape Attempt and Shootout
The arrest took an unexpected turn when the accused allegedly attempted a daring escape while being transported to Raisen. According to police reports, the police vehicle developed a technical snag near Kiratnagar village in the Bhojpur area on Thursday. Taking advantage of the situation, Salman suddenly snatched the service pistol of the sub-inspector sitting beside him and fired at the police party before attempting to flee the scene.
Raisen Superintendent of Police Ashutosh Gupta provided details of the incident: "In retaliatory firing, he sustained a bullet injury in the leg. He has been admitted to Jai Prakash Hospital in Bhopal for treatment." The accused is currently undergoing medical treatment for his injuries while remaining under police custody.
Case Background and Community Impact
The case dates back to November 21 when the minor victim was allegedly lured with promises of chocolates while playing outside her house. The accused then took her to a nearby forest area where the assault occurred. The child was later found in serious condition after her family launched a search operation, with local residents reporting having seen her with the accused.
The incident sparked immediate outrage and communal tensions throughout Raisen district, necessitating the deployment of substantial police forces to maintain law and order. The situation escalated on Wednesday when groups of youth attempted to march toward a minority settlement, leading to police intervention including mild lathi-charge and subsequent stone-pelting incidents. Authorities had to use tear gas shells to disperse the agitated crowds.
Massive Police Response and Political Fallout
During the extensive manhunt operation, police had announced a Rs 30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the accused. The search operation involved:
- Deployment of over 300 police personnel
- Use of drone technology for surveillance
- Distribution of posters across the district
- Final arrest from a tea stall in Bhopal
The delayed apprehension of the accused fueled public anger in the victim's village, eventually requiring more than 500 police personnel to be deployed to control the volatile situation. The handling of the case drew serious attention from the highest levels of state administration, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressing strong displeasure with Raisen police's performance.
The political and administrative repercussions were immediate and significant. The district Superintendent of Police was attached to police headquarters, while the concerned police station in-charge was removed from field duty. These actions demonstrate the seriousness with which the state government viewed both the criminal incident and the subsequent law and order challenges.
The case continues to develop as the accused receives medical treatment while the legal process prepares to move forward. Community leaders have appealed for calm as the judicial process takes its course, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace while ensuring justice for the victim.
