What Happened in Karnataka? Moulvi Arrested for Allegedly Raping 5-Year-Old Girl

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Moulvi arrested for the alleged rape of a five-year-old.
- CCTV footage was pivotal in identifying the suspect.
- The victim's parents initially hesitated to report the incident.
- Community activism played a crucial role in bringing attention to the case.
- Ongoing investigations are essential for justice.
Belagavi, Aug 6 (NationPress) A 22-year-old Moulvi was taken into custody by the Karnataka Police concerning the alleged rape of a five-year-old girl in the Belagavi district, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The police reported that the incident, which transpired in 2023, gained attention after CCTV footage circulated widely on social media.
Law enforcement successfully identified the Moulvi and the girl's parents, leading to the suspect's apprehension.
A formal case has been lodged at the Muragod police station, with the accused now in judicial custody.
Reports indicate that the victim's parents were aware of the sexual assault but hesitated to approach the police due to fear.
The situation became public after Hindu activist Punith Kerehalli shared the footage on his social media platform.
In his post, he stated that the girl's father was pursuing justice but faced threats from individuals associated with the mosque, deterring him from contacting the authorities.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, Belagavi Superintendent of Police (SP) Bheemashankar S. Guled remarked, "Hindu activist Punith Kerehalli posted about the case on August 5, showcasing a clip of an individual on the girl. This information was promptly relayed to the Cybercrimes, Economic and Narcotics Offences (CEN) police station."
Following the details revealed in the video, the CEN police commenced their investigation.
The Muragod police later took over the case, uncovering that the incident had occurred on October 5, 2023.
The accused allegedly attempted to assault the girl, who resided next to the mosque, according to the SP.
SP Guled noted that upon learning of the incident, local residents consulted the victim's father but chose not to file a police report.
After the footage became widespread, law enforcement reached out to the victim's parents, attempting to encourage them to file a complaint.
Due to the refusal of the victim's parents, the Child Welfare Committee initiated the case on their behalf.
The accused Moulvi was employed as a welder and provided speeches at the mosque during his free time.
Ongoing investigations are being conducted in this case.