In a swift response to a heinous crime, Lucknow police neutralized a man accused of abducting and raping a three-year-old girl. The incident occurred late Thursday night when the child was taken from under a bridge near Alambagh metro station, where she was sleeping beside her mother.

The victim was later found in nearby thickets, critically injured and bleeding, after a passerby heard her cries and alerted authorities.

Medical examinations confirmed severe injuries, necessitating emergency ICU care and potential plastic surgery. The police promptly registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and formed special teams to apprehend the perpetrator.

Early Friday morning, the accused was located and killed in a police encounter, underscoring the law enforcement's commitment to swift justice. 

This tragic event has sparked outrage and calls for enhanced child safety measures. Authorities have assured continued support for the victim's family and are reviewing surveillance footage to ensure comprehensive justice.