Srinagar, May 25 (JKNS): In a swift breakthrough, the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday arrested a key accused, who happens to be a neighbor, in connection with the brutal rape and murder of a minor girl in central Kashmir’s Budgam district.
A senior police officer from J&K Police confirmed to news agency Jammu & Kashmir News Service — JKNS that, the accused, (name withheld) was apprehended within 24 hours of the crime being reported.
“One of the primary accused has been arrested. Efforts are actively underway to trace and nab the other individuals involved in this heinous crime,” the officer said, adding that the police will ensure the perpetrators receive the harshest possible punishment under the law.
The breakthrough happened under the direct supervision of Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Inspector General of Police Vidhi Kumar Birdi, and Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam Harriprasad K.K.
The 12-year-old girl went missing from her residence in the Galwanpora area of Budgam on Saturday evening.
The minor’s body was recovered from a field close to her village, sparking widespread outrage and shock across the region on Sunday morning.
Earlier, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam, K. K. Hari Prasad, constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) after preliminary investigations strongly pointed toward rape and murder.
Widespread Condemnation
The gruesome incident has triggered immense public anger and grief across Jammu and Kashmir.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with various political, religious, and civil society leaders, have strongly condemned the barbaric act, demanding a fast-track trial and exemplary punishment for the culprits.
Further investigation by the SIT is currently underway. (JKNS)
