Man arrested for ‘raping’ child with speech disability after ‘threatening her with death’ in Mymensingh

The child was playing next to her house when Shakul Shangma allegedly took her into the forest

Police have arrested a man from the ethnic minority community in Mymensingh’s Haluaghat over allegations that he raped an 11-year-old child with a speech disability.

The incident occurred around 3pm on Sunday in the Chatugaon area of Jugli Union.

That night, the child’s mother filed a case, said Md Abdullah Al Mamun, additional superintendent (ASP) of Mymensingh police.

The arrestee was identified as 56-year-old local resident Shakul Sangma.

Police and locals say the child was playing next to her house when Shakul enticed her into the nearby jungle. There, he threatened to kill her, covered her mouth, and raped her.

Local watchman Baktar Mia and others saw the incident and Shakul ran away. When the child was rescued and taken home, she explained her assault through gestures.

Local dignitaries informed police, who went to the scene and found initial evidence of the crime. Based on that, they conducted a special operation and arrested Shakul.

Locals say Shakul had previously been accused of harassing and assaulting women in the area.

ASP Abdullah said the child was taken to the hospital for advanced treatment after the assault.

Preparations are under way to present the suspect before a court, he added.