In a harrowing case, five individuals, including a private bus conductor, have been arrested in relation to the alleged gang-rape of an eighth-grade schoolgirl over a period of two years.
According to the Kalutara North Police, those detained include the bus conductor from Horana Remuna, three men from the Diyagama area, and another individual who allegedly helped confine the victim. Among the arrested are two married men and one individual over 60 years of age.
The investigation has revealed that the girl, who lived with her ill parents and elder brother in impoverished conditions, was lured with money and gifts before being subjected to repeated sexual abuse. About a month ago, the bus conductor reportedly took the girl to his residence in Horana Remuna, where she was subsequently molested and held against her will.
Kalutara North Police began their investigation following reports of the girl’s disappearance. Under the direction of Station Commander Mr. Damit Jayathilaka, and with the efforts of the Women and Child Affairs Division, the victim was located at the conductor’s residence. Further questioning uncovered that the girl had endured severe abuse over the past three years and was raped in various locations, including lodges near her home.
The girl is currently receiving medical care at Nagoda Teaching Hospital, Kalutara. The suspects are expected to appear before the Kalutara Magistrate’s Court. The investigation is being led by Kalutara Senior Superintendent of Police Kavinda Piyasekera, Assistant Superintendent of Police Duminda Rajapaksa, and Inspector Maheshika of the Children and Women Bureau.