Itanagar, April 12: A 15-year-old girl reported missing from Itanagar in December has been successfully traced and rescued from Rajasthan, with police arresting a 25-year-old man accused of luring her through social media.
According to officials, the missing complaint was filed on December 30 at the Women Police Station in Itanagar after the minor had been untraceable since December 27. A case was registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, following which a coordinated investigation was launched.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of SDPO Itanagar Chera Saban and officer-in-charge of the Women Police Station Sonam Rina. Investigators combined technical surveillance with field intelligence, eventually tracing the girl to Banswara in Rajasthan, where she was safely recovered.
During the course of the investigation, police found that the minor had allegedly come into contact with the accused through the social media platform Snapchat. She was reportedly drawn into a relationship over time, following which the accused is alleged to have established a physical relationship with her.
The accused, identified as Dilawar Hussain (25), a resident of Banswara, was apprehended on April 9 from Dungarpur district with the assistance of local authorities. He was subsequently produced before a Special Judge of the POCSO Court in Dungarpur, which granted transit remand for his transfer to Arunachal Pradesh.
Police stated that the accused is being brought to the state for further legal proceedings and will be produced before the appropriate court. The rescued minor has undergone medical examination and has been placed in a shelter home to ensure her safety and care.
The operation was led by Sub-Inspector Bamang Yakum, along with Constables Arun Singh, Ogo Pertin, and Lady Constable Arty Degu, who formed part of the team.
Authorities have urged parents and guardians to closely monitor children’s use of smartphones and social media, cautioning against the rising risk of online grooming. Police also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activity, reiterating their commitment to safeguarding women and children.
