Deoria horror: Man accused of raping 7-year-old escapes custody, shot during manhunt

In Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, a harrowing case involving the rape of a 7-year-old girl has unfolded. Mohammad Shafiullah, aged 41, is accused of the assault. According to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Deepender Nath Chaudhuri, the incident occurred when the young girl went to buy milk from a local shop. Shafiullah, who was known to the shopkeeper, lured the girl inside and allegedly raped her.

Arrest and Escape

Shafiullah was apprehended and, while being transported to the hospital after complaining of illness, managed to escape. During the transfer, he forcibly pushed a police officer and fled. In response, police formed three search teams to locate him. The ensuing manhunt resulted in a nighttime confrontation where Shafiullah was shot in the leg.

#Breaking
Mohammad Shafiullah, who brutally raped a girl in Deoria, became one-legged after being caught in Operation Langda while running away from the Uttar Pradesh police...
pic.twitter.com/o2sIlvnNAc

— Alok (@alokdubey1408) August 26, 2024

Community Reaction and Police Response

Local residents, hearing the girl's cries, intervened by capturing Shafiullah, beating him, and then handing him over to the authorities. Superintendent of Police Sankalp Sharma confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed in connection with the case.

BJP MLA Shalabh Mani Tripathi visited the scene and urged the police to ensure strict legal action against the accused. The incident has sparked significant community and political response, demanding justice for the victim.

The swift actions of both the police and the local community have highlighted the severity of the crime and the determination to hold Shafiullah accountable.