Authorities in Lahore recently arrested a theatre actor following allegations of sexual assault against a 16-year-old domestic worker at her residence. The incident, which has drawn significant public attention, highlights the urgent need for stronger child protection measures, public awareness, and the strict enforcement of labor and legal safeguards for minors.
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the victim’s mother at Nawab Town police station, the minor had been employed at the actor’s residence in the OPF Housing Scheme since August 8.
The FIR alleges that on the night of August 14, a man residing in the upper portion of the house gave the girl a drugged drink and sexually assaulted her.
When she regained consciousness the following morning at 11 a.m., the actor’s employee reportedly administered another drugged drink and assaulted her again. The FIR further states that the employee then called four other men, unknown to the victim, who allegedly sexually assaulted her over the course of two days while she was confined and kept drugged in the house.
The victim’s mother also accused the theatre actor of physically assaulting her daughter and threatening her to remain silent about the abuse.
Additionally, the FIR notes that pictures and videos were reportedly taken during the assaults, further intensifying the gravity of the situation.
The victim managed to escape on August 18 but initially did not inform her family out of fear of reprisal. It was only on August 23, when the mother noticed injuries on the victim, that the case was formally reported to the police.
Following the complaint, Lahore authorities conducted a raid on the accused’s residence and took the theatre actor into custody. Additional operations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.
This tragic case serves as a reminder of the urgent need for public education about child safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals in domestic employment. Families and communities are encouraged to remain vigilant, create safe working environments, and educate children about their rights.
