The terror of a serial molester targeting underage girls has once again gripped the city of Vasai-Virar. These perpetrators, lurking on winding streets, apprehend young girls and subject them to sexual assault. This has instilled fear among parents, leading the Tulunja Police to release images of two suspects, along with an announcement of a reward for information leading to their capture.
Worries Intensify After Two Incidents
In the city of Nallasopara, incidents of schoolgirls being accosted on the streets and outdoor-playing children being taken to secluded areas for sexual abuse have been reported. Tulunja Police have registered separate cases for two incidents, one occurring on October 5 and the other on November 15. Investigations revealed that unknown culprits had committed harassment and sexual abuse against 7 and 9-year-old girls. The incidents came to light when the girls bravely disclosed the ordeal to their parents, prompting the Assistant Police Inspector Mithun Mhatre from Tulunja Police Station to take action. Charges have been filed against two individuals in both cases.
Tulunja Police have formed teams to apprehend these two suspects and have circulated their images widely. Senior Police Inspector Shailesh Nagarkar of Tulunja Police Station announced a reward for those providing information. The police are urging parents and girls to remain vigilant.
Recalling the 2018 Case
Memories of a similar incident in Nallasopara in 2018 resurface amid the recent cases. Back then, a cunning assailant named Rehan Qureshi terrorized the city. Investigations revealed that Qureshi, a man with a history of preying on schoolgirls, would harass and rape them on the streets and at intersections. He engaged in such reprehensible behavior with numerous girls in Nallasopara, but only three dared to file complaints. It was later uncovered that he had sexually abused over 200 girls in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Mira Road, and Bhayandar. Qureshi, who had been unwell for two years, was eventually arrested by the Crime Branch.
Conclusion
As the authorities intensify efforts to capture the current suspects, the community is on high alert. Parents and guardians are urged to educate their children about personal safety and report any suspicious activities to the police promptly. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and swift law enforcement action to ensure the safety and well-being of young individuals in Vasai-Virar.
