Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police have designated the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in the Saheed Nagar area as a “red flag” priority case, transferring the charge of investigation to the Crime Branch. The Crime Branch DG will directly oversee the investigation.
The minor was reportedly enticed from her native place to Bhubaneswar with the lure of a data entry job. Upon arrival, she was taken to a rented flat in Saheed Nagar, where two men allegedly assaulted her sexually on the afternoon of December 18, around 2 p.m. After managing to flee the premises later that day, the survivor approached Saheed Nagar Police Station and filed a complaint on the evening of December 19.
Police registered the matter under relevant sections, including Section 70(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for gang rape and Section 6 of the POCSO Act. Both primary suspects were apprehended quickly, presented in court.
Forensic experts and a crime scene unit visited the site, gathering key evidence to bolster the investigation. Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena, emphasized that the “red flag” status would ensure close oversight and faster progress. This classification guarantees senior-level supervision and accelerated processes.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another reported gang rape of a minor girl near Dhauli on December 10. The case is under investigation.
