PBI finds no evidence in rape case against model mosque imam

The Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) has found no evidence supporting a rape allegation against the imam and khatib of Patuakhali Model Mosque and two others.

The complainant, Jahnara Begum, 63, was arrested by Patuakhali Sadar police on Monday after a court issued an arrest warrant against her.

Jahnara filed the case in November 2025, accusing imam Tanvir Hossain, caretaker Sabbir and Ahmadullah of raping her 12-year-old granddaughter at the mosque.

Following a court order, the PBI investigated the case and found no evidence supporting the allegations, according to its report.

The imam said the girl and another grandchild had been detained after allegedly being caught stealing mosque property and handed over to police. He said the rape case was filed against them afterward.