12-year-old orphan girl allegedly assaulted at shrine; case registered against ‘Pir’

CHAKWAL: Police have registered a case against a pir, identified as Pir Syed Abdullah Shah, for allegedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old orphan girl who had been brought to his Dera (shrine) in Dandah Shah Bilawal, tehsil Lawa for spiritual healing.

According to the FIR, the girl had travelled from Mianwali with her brother to visit the Pir a few days ago. They were allegedly asked to remain at the Dera (shrine) throughout the day, with the Pir saying that he would perform the ritual in the evening.

The sources said that after dinner, the girl’s brother was accommodated in a separate guest room while the girl was sent to another room to sleep.

According to the girl’s statement, the Pir allegedly entered the room later at night, displayed a firearm and sexually assaulted her.

Police subsequently arranged a medical examination of the girl. The preliminary medical report reportedly indicated signs consistent with sexual assault. Samples and other relevant evidence have been sent to a forensic laboratory in Lahore for further analysis.

A case was registered against Mr Shah under Section 376(iii), and police launched an investigation. Police said they were conducting raids at different locations to arrest the suspect.

Statements of the girl and other relevant persons are also being recorded, while further legal action will be taken in light of the investigation and forensic findings.