How Did Cops Disguised as Fishermen Capture a Suspected Child Abuser?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Police innovation: The use of disguises showcases resourceful tactics in law enforcement.
- Year-long investigation: The operation highlights the persistence required to capture fugitives.
- Child safety: The ongoing need for vigilance against child trafficking.
- Community impact: Successful operations reassure the public about their safety.
- Collaborative efforts: Teamwork among police units is crucial in complex investigations.
Kolkata, Sep 20 (NationPress) The police of West Bengal successfully apprehended a suspect, accused of sexually abusing a minor, while posing as fishermen in the expansive sea. The individual had evaded capture for over a year, slipping through the fingers of law enforcement in multiple attempts across 20 states.
Authorities finally located him in the Bay of Bengal, concealed aboard a fishing vessel. Details reveal that the arrest took place during a covert operation between Kakdwip and Namkhana in the South 24 Parganas district.
Aashish Kumar Maurya, the superintendent of the Ranaghat police district, stated: "This suspect had been on the run for a year. There are indications he may be linked to women and child trafficking. Our team’s diligent efforts have culminated in this significant success. The operation's success in such a challenging environment underscores the capabilities of our force."
The investigation was triggered by a missing person report for a minor girl lodged in October 2024 at the Haringhata police station in Nadia. Subsequent efforts to locate the girl led to the identification of an individual tied to a trafficking syndicate.
In July, the missing girl was located in Kalyani, where medical examinations revealed she was pregnant, prompting a serious investigation under the POCSO Act. This case was subsequently reclassified as a kidnapping.
Under the oversight of a DSP, an extensive search for the suspect was launched. The police's Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Special Investigation Team diligently monitored his movements, revealing that he frequently changed locations, particularly between Namkhana and Kakdwip.
The operation culminated in the arrest of the suspect over 10 kilometers into the sea, thanks to the skillful disguise of two sub-inspectors and two constables as fishermen, enabling them to approach the suspect's boat.