Girl, 5, found raped and gagged after being 'lured by sweets' on way home from school

A five year old girl was allegedly abducted, raped and stuffed inside a sack on her way home from school before being dumped.

The horrifying incident occurred in India’s Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, local police confirmed, following the arrest of a 35 year old man.

Reports indicate the ordeal took place on Friday afternoon, when the young girl, making her way back from school, stopped at a nearby shop to buy chocolates.

Investigators revealed the suspect enticed her to his home by “offering sweets”.

“When the girl did not return home for a long time, her family members and villagers began searching.”

“After two hours, two youths noticed movement inside a sack near a well. On opening it, they found the child gagged with a pillow cover and in shock,” a police officer said.

Following a medical examination, Sub-Divisional Officer of Police Anoop Lakra confirmed the assault.

The five year old is currently in a “stable condition.”

According to local media, the accused was taken into custody.

Lakra further stated that forensic specialists have gathered evidence from the scene and “further investigation is underway.”

Outrage swept through the local community following news of the appalling incident, with residents gathering outside the police station in protest.

Authorities have pledged to pursue the case with the utmost urgency, while the suspect remains in custody as officers continue to collect witness statements and forensic evidence.