Shillong, Jul 13: Meghalaya Police have stepped up efforts to locate the alleged accused in the rape case registered at the Laitumkhrah police station as lookout notice has been issued across the country, including Mizoram.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem told reporters that the police initially issued a lookout notice to Mizoram before expanding it to all states. He said a special team has also been constituted to trace and arrest the accused.
He said the complainant’s statement has been recorded and investigation indicated that there may be additional victims.
“The victim’s statement has been recorded, and we have come to know that there may be other victims. They will also be examined in due course,” he said.
Syiem added that while police have spoken to some alleged victims over the phone, they have been asked to appear before investigators to record their statements and lodge formal FIRs.
“We have spoken to some more victims, but only over the phone. They have now been asked to come forward and give their statements and file FIRs, which they are yet to do,” he said.
Concerning information circulating on social media that claims of eight victims, Syiem cautioned against treating such posts as confirmed information. “We are yet to verify it. Unless people come forward, give their statements, and we examine them, we cannot confirm that they are victims,” he added.
Refuting speculation that the accused had fled to Aizawl, Syiem said Meghalaya Police have been coordinating closely with Mizoram Police since the accused allegedly went absconding.
“I have been in touch with the SP of Aizawl. The Aizawl Police searched the accused’s residence, but he was not there. He has not gone to Aizawl,” he said.
The SP said the immediate priority of the investigation is to arrest the accused, adding that the charge sheet will be filed once he is apprehended and further evidence is gathered.
“Our immediate action is to catch the accused. Once he is arrested and more facts come to light, we will file the charge sheet as soon as possible,” Syiem said.
