Lucknow gang rape of 16‑year‑old girl leads to arrest of five suspects including 70‑year‑old Dwarika Raidas

Police in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, said a 16‑year‑old girl was abducted on July 17 and taken to a hotel in the PGI area, where she was held captive for three days. During that time she was repeatedly raped, with the main act carried out by 70‑year‑old Dwarika Raidas. Four other accused – Durgesh Ravat, his wife Khushbu, Vinod Ravat and his wife Rabi – facilitated the kidnapping, transport and confinement.

The investigation, launched after the victim’s aunt reported the disappearance, led to the arrest of all five suspects on July 27. All were taken into custody and sent to jail. The case has been filed under Indian Penal Code sections 61(2), 64(2) and 137(2), as well as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Police noted that several of the accused have prior criminal records.