29 children abused, killed in Punjab in eight months

Lahore: At least 29 children were subjected to sexual abuse across 11 districts of Punjab over the past eight months, according to police records.

The records show that police registered 16 cases involving the sexual abuse and murder of children during the period. Police said all the children in these cases were sexually assaulted before being killed.

According to police, 20 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incidents. Investigations are continuing in several cases.

The highest number of reported incidents was recorded in Sargodha, where nine cases were reported. Bahawalpur followed with four cases, while three incidents were reported in Faisalabad.

Two cases each were registered in Gujranwala, Mianwali, Khanewal, Muzaffargarh and Rahim Yar Khan. One incident each was reported in Sheikhupura, Toba Tek Singh and Jhang.

Police data further shows that progress in the legal proceedings remains limited. So far, challans in only 11 cases have been submitted to the courts, while investigations in four cases are still underway.

The figures highlight the serious threat of sexual violence against children in Punjab and raise concerns about delays in completing investigations and prosecuting those responsible.

Police officials said suspects arrested in the cases are being investigated according to the law, while further legal action will follow once investigations are completed.