Long Fugitives: Arrest of Haridwar Rape Accused

Uttarakhand STF has arrested a fugitive from Punjab, accused of raping a minor in Haridwar two years ago. Identified as Arif, the suspect was reportedly hiding in a Mohali scrap warehouse. The police previously registered charges against him, and a reward was offered for his capture.

In a significant breakthrough, the Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) successfully apprehended a fugitive criminal wanted for allegedly raping a minor girl in Haridwar two years ago. The accused was arrested in Punjab on Sunday, bringing an end to a prolonged manhunt.

Identified as Arif, the suspect from Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly involved in the abduction and rape of a class nine student in Haridwar. According to authorities, Arif had been hiding in a scrap warehouse situated in Mohali until his capture by the STF.

Despite being charged under serious sections of the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act, Arif had evaded arrest, with a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head. STF officers dedicated a week to gathering vital intelligence in Mohali, which eventually led to the suspect's arrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)