Lucknow: A 16-year-old schoolgirl was allegedly gang-raped by five unidentified men in a secluded area under the Banthara police station limits on the outskirts of Lucknow on Saturday, police officials reported.
The victim, a Class 11 student, had left her home around noon to visit a relative and was being accompanied by a male acquaintance on a two-wheeler. On their way, they paused near a mango orchard situated close to a petrol pump when the shocking incident occurred.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Krishnanagar), Vikash Pandey, said the girl’s companion was attacked by the group and forced to flee. “The five men then sexually assaulted the girl. Before leaving, they threatened her with consequences if she spoke about the crime,” Pandey stated.
Despite the trauma, the girl managed to reach out to a family member, who immediately informed law enforcement.
Banthara Station House Officer (SHO) Rana Rajesh Kumar confirmed that several police teams have been formed to trace the suspects. “We’re scanning the area for any leads, including CCTV footage and local inputs. The investigation is moving ahead on priority,” he said.
Medical support has been provided to the survivor, and her statement has been recorded as part of the ongoing probe. Authorities have assured that no effort will be spared in identifying and apprehending those involved.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of minors, particularly in less-populated areas.
