Mhow Army Officer's Friend Gang-Rape Case: Five Sentenced to Life
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Synopsis
On March 24, a fast-track court in Mhow sentenced five men to life imprisonment for gang-raping a female friend of a trainee army officer. The court's decision follows months of intense investigation and witness testimonies, including crucial DNA evidence linking the accused to the crime.
Key Takeaways
- Fast-track court in Mhow sentences five to life imprisonment.
- Incident involved gang rape and assault on army officers.
- Over 30 witnesses provided testimony against the accused.
- DNA evidence was critical in securing convictions.
- One accused remains on trial in Juvenile Court.
Bhopal, March 24 (NationPress) The fast-track court in Mhow rendered its decision on Monday, imposing life imprisonment on five of the accused due to the severity of their vile acts.
After six months following the traumatic incident involving a trainee army officer and the gang rape of his female companion at Jam Gate in Mhow, located in the Indore district, justice has ultimately prevailed.
The courtroom was filled with the accounts of more than 30 witnesses, each testimony contributing to the case against the offenders.
Crucial to the prosecution was the DNA report, a powerful and undeniable piece of evidence that determined the outcome for the accused.
Despite the absence of eyewitnesses and surveillance footage, the evidence was compelling. Among the six suspects, one—a minor—remains under trial in the Juvenile Court.
The convicted individuals—Anil Baror (27), the principal offender, alongside Pawan Bansunia (23), Ritesh Bhabhar (25), Rohit Girwal (23), and Sachin Makwana (25)—now endure the consequences of life sentences for their horrific actions.
The ordeal commenced during the night of September 10, 2024, when two trainee officers and their female companions sought a brief escape at the Army Firing Range near Jam Gate, within the Badgonda police station area in Mhow.
Tragically, their gathering around 2 a.m. transformed into a nightmare just thirty minutes later.
A group of seven to eight men, armed with sticks and rods, attacked them like predators.
The officers faced brutal assaults, suffering extensive beatings. In the chaos, one officer bravely confronted the assailants, who then demanded a ransom of Rs 10 lakh—or risk death.
The attackers split the group apart.
One officer and a woman were taken hostage, while the others were sent to secure the ransom. When the pair failed to return, the attackers revealed their darkest intentions.
The female hostage was subjected to horrific violence and gang-raped. The assailants fled into the night. The incident shocked the community, igniting public outrage and demands for justice.
The police acted swiftly, capturing two of the suspects and later apprehending the remaining individuals. Recognizing the crime's severity, the administration ensured a fast-tracked trial.
The investigation advanced rapidly, culminating in the filing of a charge sheet on October 12—almost a month post-crime. The evidence compiled by the Badgonda police was convincing. DNA analysis from the clothing of Anil and Ritesh, hair samples from the scene, blood samples, and the victim's DNA painted a clear picture.
Although the victim's stolen Aadhaar card was never found, the police invoked Section 238 for evidence destruction.
Moreover, a country-made pistol and live ammunition, allegedly used during the incident, were confiscated from Ritesh.
