Free Fire friendship turns into abduction, assault case in Ahmedabad, accused nabbed

A 16-year-old Class 12 Science student from the Vejalpur locality of Ahmedabad was allegedly sexually assaulted and abducted by a youth from West Bengal whom she befriended through the popular online battle royale game, Free Fire. The accused was apprehended by the police at Kharagpur Railway Station while attempting to flee with the minor to his home state.

The accused, identified as Ashiq (alias Arman Mahmad Azgar), 21, a casual labourer from West Bengal, had been in contact with the survivor for the past 18 months. What began as a virtual acquaintance during gaming sessions escalated into regular conversations over WhatsApp after the duo exchanged mobile numbers.

How it all began

According to the police, Ashiq arrived in Ahmedabad on January 22 specifically to meet the girl. Exploiting a time when her family members were away, he visited her residence in Vejalpur. It is alleged that the accused sexually assaulted the minor within her home.

Following the assault, Ashiq reportedly coerced and lured the girl into leaving with him. On January 23, the duo boarded a train from Kalupur Railway Station in Ahmedabad, destined for West Bengal.

The matter came to light when the girl's frantic family approached the Vejalpur police to report her missing. Recognising the gravity of the situation, the police initiated a technical analysis of call records and mobile locations.

"Our technical surveillance indicated that the suspect was travelling by train towards West Bengal. We immediately alerted the Railway Police at Kharagpur," said A B. Valand, Assistant Commissioner of Police (M Division).

 As the train pulled into Kharagpur station, local authorities, acting on the tip-off from Ahmedabad Police, intercepted the duo. A team from Vejalpur police subsequently travelled to West Bengal to take custody of the accused and secure the minor.

ACP Valand further revealed that this was not Ashiq’s first visit to the city. Investigations suggest the accused had visited Ahmedabad previously and had entered the victim's house on at least two occasions.

"The accused had visited the minor's home earlier as well. He has been charged with sexual assault and abduction. We are currently conducting the necessary medical examinations and formal procedures," the ACP added.

The minor has since been reunited with her family. The accused is currently in police custody, and further investigation into the digital footprints of their interaction is under way.