Main accused in the gang-rape of a Danish national, which took place near New Delhi Railway Station on Tuesday, Mahender alias Ganja is a notorious criminal and runs his nefarious activities in the area.
Following the investigation into the case, it has come to the fore that he has been involved in five cases, including two murder cases. Police sources said the accused is a habitual offender and around two months ago, he was released from Tihar Jail. He also runs a pickpocket gang with his associate in the Central district area.
Police sources said he forced the victim to consume alcohol before he and his associates raped her. On Thursday evening, police managed to nab another accused, Raju alias Bhajni (23) from Nizamuddin Railway Station as he was trying to flee from the Capital. Meanwhile, a city court on Thursday sent both the accused to police custody till January 20.
Police sources added Mahender alias Ganja has earlier been arrested four times by the Railway Police of Crime Branch. “First time he was arrested in 2010 from New Delhi Railway Station for allegedly beating up a labourer in New Delhi Railway Station. later, he was also arrested in two murder cases in 2011 and 2012. last time, he was arrested by the New Delhi Railway Police for allegedly committing theft in November 2013,” police sources added.
After interrogation, Ganja said on the day of crime, he along with his seven associates were enjoying their party and consuming liquor as well as sniffing glue since afternoon. “Around 4 pm, the victim approached us and after directing her the wrong way, we first dragged her and then robbed her. We forced her to consume alcohol and later raped her,” accused Ganja told police during a cross-examination.
Police said the after raping the victim, all the eight accused fled from the spot in an inebriated state. After reaching Gate No. 1 of New Delhi Railway Station, they shared their spoils.
“They turned in for the night at Jama Masjid area after taking a cot and mattress on rent. later accused Mahender along with Raja boarded a local train and went to Sahibabad in the neighbouring district of Ghaziabad,” police sources added.
“The teams have been sent to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana and Maharashtra in search of the other five accused. All five absconding men have been identified, and will be arrested soon,” the officer added.