Zunheboto tense after alleged sexual assault of minor girl

Police detain one suspect, investigation on

Morung Express News 
Dimapur | June 10

The situation in Zunheboto town became tense on June 10 following the news of a sexual assault on a minor girl. 

As the news of the sexual assault spread along with rumors that the police authorities were hiding the accused went about, an irate mob reportedly gathered outside the Zunheboto Police Station and attacked the police personnel stationed there with sticks and stones as they made attempts to barge inside. The situation was however brought under control. 

The Zunheboto police took into custody one suspect on Saturday evening.

According to a press release from the Superintendent of Police, Zunheboto, the alleged sexual assault took place within the premises of the victim’s school on the morning of June 8. It, however, did not disclose age and gender but other sources stated the victim was a 4 year-old girl. The police received the complaint on June 9.

As per the release, the suspect was identified by the victim via a Test Identification Parade (TIP). The TIP is a process laid down in section 9 of Indian Evidence Act, 1872 and section 54 A of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 that is used to identify suspects before a magistrate.

Due to the victim's minor status, interactions were conducted in the presence of her family members. To the TIP, which was conducted on June 10, the school’s teachers, other working staff and students were summoned. It was conducted in the presence of the Judicial Magistrate, Child Welfare Committee member, women leaders, and parents, along with victim, the release said. Prior to the TIP, it added that forensics samples were collected as per the standard investigation procedures.

“The TIP was completed by the evening of June 10, 2023, whereby, based on the report of the committee, a request was made to the Judicial Magistrate for granting permission to take the identified suspect into custody,” it said. It did not disclose the details of the suspect citing he was a minor while stating that due care were being taken to complete the necessary procedures. 

According to the release, investigation was on “in full swing” to bring the case to early logical conclusion and deliver justice to the victim.

It added, “This factual assessment and progress of investigation is based on the investigation conducted so far and to lay any rumors or factual inconsistencies to rest.”

CrPC 144 promulgated

DIMAPUR, JUNE 10 (MExN): Deputy Commissioner, Zunheboto on June 10 promulgated CrPC 144 prohibiting assembly of five or more persons and vehicular movement of non-essential nature with effect from June 11, 12 AM onwards in entire Zunheboto town till further notice. 

The order also stated that assembly of five or more persons is also prohibited in the area of the DC Office Complex and 100 meters in its vicinity at all times till further orders. 

Those exempted from the restriction include officials and staff of district administration, security personnel, magistrate on duty, personnel and person engaged in essential services. All movement of commercial vehicles (goods/passengers) or vehicles carrying essential commodities, press and media, telecom services and medical emergencies will also be exempted from the above restrictions, the order stated.