Police in Balrampur have swiftly arrested a key person accused in the shocking gang rape case that has deeply upset the community. The arrest, made just hours ago, marks a quick and strong move by law officers responding to the brutal attack on a young woman. This vital capture brings a critical moment in the ongoing efforts to get justice for the victim and shows the urgent work being done to find everyone involved. The case has sparked outrage, with many people in the area demanding fast and fair results, making this quick action a significant step.
Quick Arrest in Horrific Crime
Police in Balrampur have arrested two men in connection with the gang rape of a 22-year-old deaf-mute woman, an incident that has deeply disturbed the community. The arrests, made after an encounter with law enforcement, signify a swift response from authorities. The accused have been identified as Ankur Verma, 21. Harshit Pandey, 22. Both sustained injuries during their attempt to escape police custody early on Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025.
Details of the Incident
The shocking incident took place on the evening of Monday, August 11, 2025. The 22-year-old woman, who has hearing and speech impairments, was on her way home from her maternal uncle’s house in the Bahadurpur area of Balrampur district. According to police, Ankur Verma, who runs a shop near her uncle’s house and was known to the victim, allegedly approached her and offered her a ride home. Instead of taking her home, he, along with Harshit Pandey, took her to a secluded spot behind a Food Corporation of India warehouse, where the assault occurred. The victim’s family grew worried when she did not return home by 9 PM. They began searching for her and found her unconscious in a field a short distance from their home, with her clothes in disarray.
Police Investigation and Breakthrough
Upon finding the woman, her family immediately took her to the district women’s hospital. There, through gestures and with the help of experts, she conveyed to her mother that she had been raped by two men on a motorcycle. An immediate complaint was lodged with the Kotwali Dehat police station. Superintendent of Police (SP) Vikash Kumar confirmed that an FIR was filed right away. a widespread search for the perpetrators began. Investigators thoroughly reviewed CCTV footage from the area, a critical step that helped identify the suspects and the motorcycle used in the crime. A 14-second video from a camera near the SP’s residence also surfaced on social media, showing the victim in distress, which became central to the ongoing investigation. This footage showed the woman running on a dimly lit, deserted road, being chased by men on motorcycles, leading to public outrage and calls for quick action.
The Encounter and Arrest
Acting on a tip-off received late Tuesday night, police learned that the two suspects were trying to escape towards Nepal via an under-construction highway. A police team intercepted them around 12:30 AM on Wednesday. When confronted, the accused opened fire on the officers, prompting police to return fire. During the exchange, Harshit Pandey sustained a bullet wound to his leg, while Ankur Verma injured his leg after jumping from a height in an attempt to get away. Both suspects were then apprehended. Police seized a country-made pistol, live cartridges. the motorcycle used in the crime from the accused. During preliminary questioning, both Ankur Verma and Harshit Pandey confessed to the crime, stating they were drunk when they targeted the woman. Sub-Inspector Amit Chauhan also suffered minor injuries during the operation. The arrested men were provided medical aid at the Joint District Hospital, Balrampur, before being taken into custody.
Victim’s Condition and Support
The 22-year-old woman was admitted to the district women’s hospital for medical examination and care. The medical report confirmed sexual assault. Doctors have reported her condition as stable, though she remains in shock. Her ability to communicate details of the horrific event through sign language, with the help of experts, has been crucial for the investigation. The police have stated that legal action is being taken with utmost seriousness.
Community Response and Concerns
The incident has ignited widespread anger and concern among the residents of Balrampur. Many are questioning the safety of women, especially those with disabilities, in the area. The fact that the incident occurred near residences of top government officers and a police post, where some CCTV cameras were found to be non-operational, has fueled public criticism regarding law and order. In response to public outcry and initial lapses, five police personnel posted in Balrampur have been suspended for laxity in patrolling and duty. Those suspended include Sub-Inspector Shiv Kailash, Head Constable Kamlesh Prasad, Constables Rajneesh Kumar and Satish Chaurasia. Home Guard Shri Ram Gupta. This action by the authorities aims to reassure the public of accountability.
Legal Steps Forward
With the arrests made and confessions obtained, the legal process against Ankur Verma and Harshit Pandey has begun. They have been arrested under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to gang rape. Police are continuing their investigation to gather all necessary evidence and ensure a strong case. While two main accused have been apprehended, authorities are still looking into the possibility of involvement of other individuals, as the victim’s statement suggested it was a gang rape. The case is expected to move through the judicial system swiftly, with public and political pressure for prompt justice. 
