Nagpur: A 16 year old girl was rescued by Nagpur Police after investigators traced a digital lead that helped locate the place where she was allegedly being held. A 20 year old man has been arrested in connection with the case, with police registering offences under relevant sections, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
According to police, the teenager had been in contact with the accused through online platforms before the incident. The girl, a Class 12 student, had left her home after informing her family that she was going out to meet a friend. When she did not return and her phone could not be reached, her family approached the police.
The investigation team began gathering information from available sources, including call records and digital communication. During the probe, police identified the accused and began efforts to trace his location.
Officials said a phone conversation involving the accused and the teenager provided investigators with an important lead. The search continued until police were able to identify the location where the girl was allegedly kept.
A significant breakthrough came when investigators traced an online food delivery order linked to the accused. Police used the delivery details to locate a rented apartment in Nagpur, where the teenager was found and rescued.
Police said the girl was taken for medical examination and provided necessary care. Investigators have alleged that she was assaulted and threatened during the period she was missing. Evidence collected from the location, including a knife and other materials, has been taken for forensic analysis.
The accused, was arrested and produced before the court. Police are continuing their investigation, including examination of electronic devices and other evidence to establish the complete sequence of events.
During court proceedings, the defence presented its version of events and disputed some allegations. Police have maintained that their investigation and evidence collected so far support the charges. The final facts of the case will be determined through the judicial process.
The incident highlights the importance of awareness about online safety, especially for children and teenagers who interact with unknown individuals on social media, gaming platforms and other digital spaces. Experts often advise young users to avoid sharing personal information online, meet online contacts only with parental awareness, and immediately report suspicious behaviour.
Authorities have also reiterated that families should maintain open communication with children so that concerns related to online interactions or personal safety can be addressed quickly.
The investigation into the case is ongoing. Police have appealed to the public and media to protect the identity of the survivor, as required under child protection laws.
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