16 Year Old Girl Allegedly Raped After Being Lured Through Social Media in Kanpur, Police Launch Search for Accused

Kanpur: A 16-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a youth she had befriended on social media in the Sachendi police station area of Kanpur. Police officials said the accused took the minor to a deserted location on the pretext of dropping her at her aunt’s house and committed the crime. A case has been registered, and police teams are searching for the accused, who has been identified as a local resident.

According to the police, the incident took place on Saturday afternoon near Kisannagar, close to an under-construction building. The accused was reportedly taking the girl on a bicycle when he diverted from the route and took her to an isolated place. It was there that the alleged crime occurred.

Police said the girl came forward and lodged a complaint at the Sachendi police station, following which a report was registered. The survivor’s statement forms the basis of the case, and further investigation is underway.

Officials said the girl’s father had died a few years ago, and she currently lives with her mother. The family approached the police after the incident, seeking legal action against the accused.

As per the police, the girl had befriended the accused, identified as Vishal Kamal, a resident of Bhagwantpur village in the Sachendi area, around a month ago through social media. After connecting online, the two started speaking regularly on the phone. Over time, the accused allegedly gained the girl’s trust.

On the day of the incident, the accused reportedly met the girl and offered to drop her at her aunt’s house. Police said he took her on a bicycle but later led her towards a deserted area near Kisannagar, close to an under-construction building, where the alleged assault took place.

Sachendi police station inspector Dinanath Mishra said that after receiving the complaint, a case was registered immediately and efforts were initiated to trace the accused. “We have registered a report based on the survivor’s complaint. Police teams are conducting searches to locate the accused. He will be arrested soon, and further legal action will be taken as per the law,” the inspector said.

Police officials said they are collecting all necessary evidence related to the case. This includes statements of the survivor and witnesses, as well as technical details related to phone communication between the accused and the victim. Officials added that strict legal provisions related to crimes against minors have been invoked.

The incident has created concern among residents of the area. Locals said such cases highlight the need for greater awareness about the risks associated with online interactions, especially for minors. Police have advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and to maintain open communication with their children regarding their use of social media and interactions with unknown persons.

Authorities have assured that the identity of the survivor will be protected as per legal norms. The police have also appealed to anyone with information about the whereabouts of the accused to come forward and assist in the investigation.

Further investigation into the matter is ongoing.