Police vehicle driver, 4 others gang-rape teen in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR: A 19-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by five men, including a driver attached to the state police's Dial-112 emergency response system, in Korba district of central Chhattisgarh. The driver and another accused have been arrested, police said Saturday, adding teams were searching for the remaining suspects. The alleged assault occurred late Jan 8 in Bankimongra, a mining township in Korba, about 200km north of Raipur. Police said one accused, known to the survivor, allegedly lured her out of her home and took her to a deserted area, where four others were waiting. The men allegedly took turns raping her before fleeing, leaving her unconscious. The survivor later returned to her home and told her family, who took her to a govt medical college hospital for treatment and informed the police. She is receiving medical care and counselling. A zero FIR was first registered at Civil Lines police station in Korba and later transferred to Bankimongra police station for investigation. Forensic teams examined the scene and statements were recorded from witnesses and family members. The alleged involvement of a driver linked to the police emergency system has caused embarrassment within the force, officials said. "The other three accused will be arrested soon," Korba SP Siddharth Tiwari added.