Berhampur: A desperate attempt to escape domestic abuse turned into a nightmare for a minor girl after her search for safety ended up in an alleged gang rape in Berhampur in Odisha's Ganjam district. The survivor, a resident of Andhra Pradesh, had run away from home a few days back and taken refuge in Berhampur. She was allegedly drugged and gang raped by her male companion and his friends on March 29. The incident came to light after police swung into action and made multiple arrests in this connection. 

Police said the girl had been living with her stepfather following her biological father's demise. She reportedly fled her home, boarding the Prashanti Express on March 24, to escape alleged sexual harassment by her stepfather. Upon arriving at the Berhampur railway station, she spent time wandering near Platform No. 4 and eventually found temporary work at a local tea stall. During her four days in the city, she developed a relationship with a local minor boy. On the night of March 29, the boy invited her to meet him and two of his friends. However, the situation took a dark turn when they reached the designated spot.

Drinks were spiked, suspect police

Initial probe indicated that girl and her male friend were administered a sedative as the latter fell unconscious shortly after. The girl also lost consciousness. Exploiting her helpless state, the two adult friends of the boyfriend allegedly gang-raped her.

Local residents discovered the girl in a distressed state the following morning and alerted the authorities. Based on the survivor's statement, Gosaninuagaon Police launched an immediate probe after which the accused were nabbed. Confirming the developments, Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M. said the two associates of the girl's companion have been arrested. The minor boyfriend has been apprehended and sent to a juvenile reformation home. A case has also been registered against the victim’s stepfather in Andhra Pradesh regarding the initial allegations of sexual harassment, he added.

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