On Tuesday, police arrested six individuals, including the prime suspect Arsalan, linked to the rape and murder of seven-year-old Muntaha in Sargodha’s Block No. 8 area. The victim had gone to buy items from a nearby shop but never returned, sparking grief and outrage in the neighborhood.
The FIR alleges that Arsalan lured the child to his shop, sexually assaulted her, and then killed her with a sharp-edged weapon, fearing identification. He fled after the incident. During initial proceedings, police took Hanif, the shop owner, his son, and other suspects into custody.
Sargodha DPO Sohaib Ashraf formed a six-member investigation team and conducted multiple raids to apprehend Arsalan. Muntaha’s funeral prayers were held at the central graveyard with large attendance from residents; her parents and family were visibly devastated.
Legal proceedings are underway for the physical remand of the arrested individuals, according to police. Authorities stated that forensic evidence, witness statements, and suspect histories are under examination in the case. The medical report on Muntaha has not been made public yet.
Police officials confirmed all arrests will face legal action per law, with no one responsible spared. Muntaha’s parents have urged for swift justice and exemplary punishment for those involved. Residents and civil society representatives have condemned the incident, demanding deterrent punishment to prevent future crimes.