HARIPUR: The body of five-year-old Ayat Noor, who had been missing from Haripur for around 15 days, has been recovered from a well near a warehouse on University Road, according to police reports.
Ayat had reportedly left her home to play and did not return. Police launched an investigation into her disappearance and used CCTV footage, geofencing and other investigative methods to trace those allegedly involved. Authorities had earlier identified several suspects and arrested three people in connection with the case.
According to police, the suspects allegedly confessed that the child was sexually assaulted before being killed and that her body was thrown into the well. However, these claims remain part of the ongoing investigation, and the suspects have not been convicted by a court.
The body was recovered from the well on August 24 and was taken to hospital for post-mortem and medical examination. Authorities are expected to establish the exact cause of death and investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault through forensic evidence.
Following the recovery of Ayat’s body, her family and local residents staged a protest and demanded justice. The case has also triggered strong reactions on social media, with people calling for those responsible to be brought to justice and for stronger protection of children.
Police say the investigation is continuing, while efforts are underway to trace other suspects allegedly connected to the case. The authorities have said that evidence gathered during the investigation will be used to determine responsibility and establish the full circumstances of the child’s death.
