2 arrested in Narendrapur gang-rape case, search continues for additional suspects

On November 1, 2024, a young woman was allegedly gang-raped after being drugged in Narendrapur, a locality in West Bengal. The incident reportedly occurred in the Dhalua area and involves four men, with the police confirming the arrest of two suspects shortly after the complaint was filed. The remaining two suspects are still at large, and police have initiated an extensive search operation to apprehend them.

The victim, a resident of East Jadavpur, met one of the accused through social media platforms. They arranged to meet on the pretext of attending the Kali Puja festivities, a significant cultural event in the region. The meeting took place at Garia station, a popular transit point in Kolkata, after which the suspect transported her to a friend’s residence in Dhalua.

Upon arriving at the friend’s house, the victim alleges that she was offered a drink that had been laced with a sedative. This caused her to lose consciousness, rendering her unable to resist the subsequent sexual assault. It was reported that the victim remained unconscious during the attack. After the incident, she regained consciousness and was able to inform her family, who promptly took her to M.R. Bangur Hospital for medical attention. Medical staff at the hospital conducted tests and provided treatment for both the physical and psychological trauma she experienced.

Following her recovery at the hospital, the victim formally reported the incident to the Narendrapur police station on November 3. The police acted quickly upon receiving the complaint, initiating an investigation that led to the arrest of two suspects. These individuals were identified and apprehended based on the victim's description and evidence collected during the investigation. The police are continuing their efforts to locate the other two suspects, utilizing both local intelligence and forensic evidence to aid their search. Faisal Bin Ahmed, Chief Superintendent of Police for the Baruipur district, has stated that the police are fully committed to resolving the case and ensuring the victim receives justice.