Daijiworld Media Network - Patna

Patna, Jul 24: Patna Police have swiftly apprehended three individuals in connection with the alleged rape and blackmail of a minor girl, an official confirmed today. The arrests come after the victim's parents filed a complaint on July 22 at the Danapur police station, leading to a rapid investigation that solved the case within 24 hours.

According to City SP (West) Bhanu Pratap Singh, the probe revealed a shocking series of events where four youths allegedly gang-raped the victim, recorded the horrific act, and then used the video to extort jewelry from her family. "They extorted jewelry kept in the house," Singh stated, highlighting the dual nature of the crime.

The Danapur Police registered FIR number 767/25 on July 22, 2025, under Sections 70(2), 308(2), 351(2) of the BNS, along with relevant sections of the POCSO Act (4/6/12). Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Senior Superintendent of Police directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by City SP (West) to expedite the inquiry.

Singh detailed the modus operandi of the perpetrators, explaining that the accused initially befriended the victim on Instagram. They then lured her to a hotel where the gang rape occurred, and the act was recorded. This "obscene video" was subsequently used to extort gold jewelry, which the accused then sold to a local goldsmith.

Goldsmith Arrested for Receiving Stolen Goods

Based on the statements provided by the three arrested youths, the police also took into custody goldsmith Arvind Kumar, who allegedly purchased the stolen jewelry. Kumar has reportedly admitted to buying the items from the accused during questioning.

The police have seized five mobile phones during the operation, and ongoing raids aim to apprehend another individual believed to be involved in the incident.

The investigative team comprised Sub-Inspector Ashish Kumar Chaudhary, Sub-Inspector Bittu Kumar Sharma, Sub-Inspector Preeti Kumari, Assistant Sub-Inspector Chandan Pratap Karna, and members of the Police Station armed force.

A Stark Reminder of Societal Challenges

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the persistent challenges faced by society regarding the safety and security of women. Crimes against women continue to be a significant concern across the nation, underscoring the urgent need for effective measures to combat such atrocities.