Two months on, abducted college student still missing in Lalmonirhat

Despite a case being filed more than two months ago, a 17-year-old college student abducted from the Teesta shoal area of Lalmonirhat remains missing.

Police have yet to arrest the prime accused, Md Robbani, 26, and his brother, Md Apel, 24, raising serious concerns among the victim’s family.

The family accused law enforcement agencies of negligence and repeated empty assurances.

According to the family, the girl went to her college on the morning of October 28 last year and did not return home. On the same day, the family filed a case with Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Station, accusing Robbani, Apel and three unidentified individuals.

Quoting the case statement, police said Robbani used to tutor the college student. He had proposed a romantic relationship to her several times, but she rejected him. Afterwards, Robbani, his younger brother Apel, and three to four others forcibly abducted the girl.

Talking to this correspondent, the girl’s father alleged, “I have contacted the investigation officer at least 20 times, but every time I only received assurances. There has been no real progress. I do not know where my daughter is, whether she is alive, dead, or trafficked. I am not getting any accurate information from the police.”

He further alleged, “Apel is moving around openly. Police are aware of this but have not arrested him. If Apel is detained, Robbani’s whereabouts can be traced, and my daughter can be rescued.”

Emran Ali, a sub-inspector of Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Station and the investigation officer of the case, told this correspondent, “I am making every possible effort. I have also informed Rab in detail about the case. The accused abductor is very cunning and is not using any mobile phone registered in his name. However, if the accused Apel is arrested quickly, Robbani’s location can be confirmed.”

Abdul Matin, officer-in-charge (OC) of Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Station, said, “We are committed to rescuing the abducted girl and arresting the accused. Sources have been assigned for this case. We hope it will be resolved very soon.”