Man held over forced child marriage

ISLAMABAD:

Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have taken into custody a proclaimed offender accused of abducting a 13-year-old girl and forcibly marrying her two years ago, following his detention by Bahawalnagar Police.

An official said on Sunday that the accused, identified as Ahsan Ali, was wanted in case No 670/24 registered at Noon Police Station, Islamabad.

The official said the accused allegedly lured the minor girl from the jurisdiction of Noon Police Station and took her to Bahawalnagar, after which he switched off his mobile phones and went into hiding.

During routine checks, Bahawalnagar Police identified Ahsan Ali as a proclaimed offender wanted by Islamabad Police and immediately contacted Noon Police for further legal action. A police team from Islamabad then travelled to Bahawalnagar to take custody of the accused and bring him back to face legal proceedings.

The official highlighted that strict laws exist regarding marriage with minor girls, and the police will prepare a strong challan to ensure the accused receives the maximum punishment under the law.

The victim's family has urged authorities to take firm action, demanding justice for the minor girl.

Islamabad Police reiterated their commitment to protecting minors and taking decisive action against those involved in abduction and child marriage cases.