Police in Bangladesh are investigating a horrific gang rape of a schoolgirl who was abducted on her way home from a class. The incident occurred on June 9 in the Gobindaganj Upazila district of Rangpur, northern Bangladesh. According to local media, the victim is believed to be 10 to 11 years old.
Abduction and Assault
The girl was forced into a rickshaw by older students and taken to a house, where she was allegedly raped by four men. She managed to escape and informed her father, who alerted the police. The victim was taken to Gaibandha General Hospital for a medical examination.
Arrest and Investigation
Authorities have arrested one suspect so far, and police patrols have been increased in the area. The investigation is ongoing.
Context of Violence Against Women
This attack comes amid widespread protests in Bangladesh and neighboring India against rape and violence targeting women. Earlier this month, a mother and daughter were raped after a group of men robbed a jewelry shop in Cox's Bazar.
According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), police in Bangladesh may not handle rape cases with the same sensitivity as in the UK. The FCDO advises that victims may face intrusive questioning and a lack of female officers or private waiting spaces.
