21-year-old arrested for sodomising minor at Jamalpur Mosque in Ahmedabad

In a chilling incident that has sparked outrage in the Jamalpur locality of Ahmedabad, the Gaekwad Haveli police have arrested a 21-year-old man for allegedly sodomising a 7-year-old boy on the terrace of a local mosque. The accused reportedly lured the child under the pretext of teaching him how to offer prayers.

The incident occurred during the Friday prayers (Jumu'ah) at the Makhdum Sahab Masjid. According to police officials, the accused, identified as Noman Shabbir Sheikh, targeted the minor while the congregation was gathered.

Police sources stated that Sheikh lured the boy to the terrace of the mosque, promising to instruct him in the nuances of Namaz. Once in an isolated corner of the terrace, the accused allegedly committed the unnatural act.

The matter came to light when the traumatised child returned home and narrated the ordeal to his mother. Recognising the gravity of the assault, the family immediately approached the authorities. As news of the horrific crime spread, a large crowd gathered in the Jamalpur area, prompting a swift response from the Gaekwad Haveli police to maintain law and order.

Police action and evidence

Chirag Gosai, Police Inspector of Gaekwad Haveli Police Station, confirmed that the accused was apprehended within hours of the complaint being lodged. "We have arrested Noman Shabbir Sheikh. Preliminary investigations reveal that the accused has a prior criminal record involving physical assault," PI Gosai stated. He further added that the police have secured crucial CCTV footage showing the accused and the minor leaving the premises, which will serve as vital evidence in the prosecution.

The victim is currently undergoing medical treatment at a local hospital, and the accused has been sent for a mandatory medical examination following his arrest. The Gaekwad Haveli police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Further investigation is under way to ensure a watertight case against the perpetrator