A 17-year-old girl, who was reportedly gang-raped at knifepoint in Aastha Kunj Park in Delhi, later aided investigators in identifying the locations of the attacks. This has been pivotal in enabling forensic teams to gather biological evidence, including a condom. Authorities stated that her detailed account has significantly facilitated the identification and apprehension of three suspects involved in the incident.

According to police reports, the survivor had visited Kalkaji Mandir with her male friend on the occasion of her birthday on Monday, September 18. After completing their prayers, they bought snacks and entered Aastha Kunj Park through Gate No. 7. The two were seated on a bench when three men, aged between 30 and 35, confronted them. Allegedly posing as police officials, the men assaulted her friend and seized their mobile phones before forcibly separating the girl from her companion.

During the confrontation, one of the suspects brandished a knife, while another displayed a firearm, reportedly asking another accomplice to draw it out. Descriptions provided by the victim highlighted that one of the attackers, identified as Asif, was recognisable by a purple shirt, and was physically larger than the other two men.

Assault and Aftermath

The survivor’s account details a harrowing experience, during which Asif allegedly stripped her of her clothing before leading her to a secluded area of the park. With a knife at her throat, he reportedly assaulted her, and subsequently, he commanded another suspect, known as Hemu, to keep watch while he proceeded with the attack. Following this, Hemu was also alleged to have assaulted her in a separate location within the park.

After the horrific ordeal, the men purportedly instructed the victim to quickly dress and threatened to kill her and her friend should they report the incident. They then returned the mobile phones before forcing both individuals out of the park. It was only after briefly confiding in her friend about the assault that he contacted the police, resulting in a call received at approximately 8:45 pm.

A police team responded swiftly to the scene near Gate No. 7 to assist the victim and her friend. The girl’s precise recounting of events significantly aided investigators as she provided detailed descriptions of the assailants and their clothing, which ultimately assisted in identifying the locations within the park where the attacks took place.

Investigation and Arrests

The forensic team and mobile crime unit conducted examinations where the assaults occurred, gathering biological evidence, including a condom discovered near one of the benches. Investigators evaluated footage from over 300 CCTV cameras in and around the park, which helped in shortlisting around 20 individuals initially suspected of involvement.

Technological surveillance and local intelligence eventually led to the apprehension of three suspects: Asif, Hemant, and Mahesh, all of whom have been placed in judicial custody. One suspect reportedly sustained injuries after allegedly firing at police officers during the apprehension process.

Continued investigations focus on analysing the mobile devices of the suspects, examining their communication patterns, and reconstructing their movements surrounding the incident. Police are also reviewing security measures at Aastha Kunj Park, particularly concerning lighting conditions and the presence of security personnel, while considering any previous allegations against the accused, though no formal complaints have been reported prior to this case.

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