A 24-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting and killing a three-year-old girl in Gurugram’s Sector 37, police said on Friday.

According to Gurugram Police, the child was playing near her residence on Thursday evening when the accused — a neighbour — allegedly took her about four kilometres away between 7 pm and 7.15 pm. Police said the suspect later killed the minor and buried the body in an empty plot near an industrial area.

Investigators said the girl’s parents filed a missing complaint around 12.15 am on Friday. CCTV footage subsequently showed the suspect taking the child away. He was detained for questioning and allegedly confessed during interrogation.

Also Read: Durga Temple Vandalised in Jabalpur: 15 Arrested After Stone-Throwing and Street Violence

Police officials said the accused led investigators to the burial site, where the body was recovered around 2 am. Forensic teams were called to the spot to collect evidence as part of the ongoing probe.

Authorities identified the suspect as a native of Bihar’s Supaul district who worked at a manufacturing firm in Gurugram and lived in the same building as the victim’s family. Officers said he was known to the child and would often play with her.

The accused has been booked under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 103(1) (murder), and Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Police said further investigation is underway.

Also Read: Himachal Pradesh Toll Hike From April 1: Cars to Pay Rs 170 Instead of Rs 70