A young shepherd who was allegedly sexually assaulted by a group of 12 men in Pakistan’s Cholistan desert has died after battling critical injuries, prompting widespread outrage and renewed calls for stronger protection of children and vulnerable communities.
According to police, the incident is under investigation as authorities continue efforts to arrest all those allegedly involved. The victim died while receiving treatment at Bahawal Victoria Hospital (BVH) after suffering severe injuries.
Police said the shepherd went missing on July 1 while grazing a flock of more than 40 sheep near Toba Jinnawala in Chak 289/HR. According to investigators, he was allegedly lured away on a motorcycle.
His family searched for him for several days before his brother found him on July 9 in a critically injured condition. He was immediately shifted to Bahawal Victoria Hospital for medical treatment.
Investigators said the victim alleged before his death that he had been drugged, repeatedly sexually assaulted over several days, and robbed of his flock. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the allegations.
Marot Police registered a case on July 15 against 12 suspects. According to the FIR, seven suspects have been identified by name, while investigations are continuing to determine the identities of the remaining accused.
Police confirmed that five suspects have been arrested, while raids are underway to apprehend the remaining individuals named in the case. Officials said a post-mortem examination has been conducted at BVH to determine the exact cause of death.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from local residents and rights advocates, who have called for a transparent investigation, swift legal action against those responsible, and improved security for shepherds and livestock herders working in the remote areas of South Punjab.
Authorities have assured that the investigation will continue and that all those found responsible will be brought before the courts.
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