2 RMG workers from ‘ethnic minority’ community raped in Bandarban

Two female workers of a readymade garment factory, from an "ethnic minority" community, were raped allegedly by a driver and his associate in Bandarban last night.

The victims, aged 19 and 23, are now undergoing treatment at Bandarban Sadar Hospital, said Shahidul Islam, officer-in-charge of Bandarban Sadar Police Station.

A case has been filed accusing two persons -- Uba Ching Marma, 23, and Sujon Barua, 27 -- in connection with the incident, said the OC.

According to the case statement, the victims were returning home from their workplace Lumbini Garment Factory at Meghla Tourist Spot in the district in a "Chander Gari" (locally modified vehicle). The two accused drove the vehicle to a secluded place in Nilachal Tourist Spot road area instead of their destination and raped them there, the police official said.

The rapists fled the scene, before locals and relatives of the victims rescued them and admitted them to Bandarban Sadar Hospital, OC Shahidul also said.

"We are trying to arrest the alleged rapists," he added.

"We demand immediate arrest of the rapists," said brother of one of the victims.