Man arrested for alleged rape of student in Mokokchung; community demands justice

MOKOKCHUNG — A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Mokokchung following a rape complaint filed by a 20-year-old student from Sungkomen ward at the Women Police Station on October 1.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the incident occurred on September 30 after the victim and accused connected via Facebook.

The accused, identified as Sumon Subha from Bishnath Charali, Assam, currently residing in Mokokchung Compound, allegedly befriended the student on the social media platform.

The complainant said the accused persistently contacted her through audio calls and insisted on meeting despite her refusals. She alleged he later came to her residence and forced himself on her.

Additional Superintendent of Police and Public Relations Officer (PRO) Y Tumchobemo Yanthan confirmed that the accused was apprehended shortly after the complaint and forwarded to judicial custody. A case has been registered at the Mokokchung Women Police Station.

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Senior Superintendent of Police Vusupreo Kezo stated that statements from both the victim and the accused have been recorded. Medical examinations were conducted, and evidence samples collected from the scene. “Necessary procedures are underway to submit the chargesheet in a timely manner,” Kezo added.

The incident has sparked outrage, with Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) and Watsu Mungdang demanding swift justice and stronger safety measures.

The AKM issued a statement condemning the act as a “brutal and inhuman” crime that has shaken the community. It called on police and authorities to handle the case with utmost seriousness, prosecuting the accused to the full extent of the law without leniency.

The AKM also urged immediate strengthening of safety protocols, especially for women and students, including stricter vigilance to prevent such crimes.

Warning against online risks, the AKM advised parents, guardians, and youth to exercise caution in social media interactions. “Befriending and meeting strangers online can be perilous. Awareness and vigilance are crucial in this digital age,” the statement read.

The Watsu Mungdang also condemned the “heinous and uncivilised act,” appealing to law enforcement agencies to ensure prompt and appropriate punishment for the accused, so justice is not delayed.

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