A Dhaka tribunal has set June 7, Sunday, for delivering the verdict in the case over the rape and murder of eight-year-old schoolgirl Ramisa Akter in Pallabi. The date was fixed by Judge Masrur Salekin of the Dhaka Metropolitan Tribunal for Suppression of Violence Against Children after hearing closing arguments from both prosecution and defense. The prosecution argued that evidence and witness testimonies proved the charges beyond doubt against accused Sohel Rana and his wife Swapna Khatun, seeking the death penalty for both. Defense lawyers appointed by the state pleaded for justice and claimed innocence on behalf of the accused.

Earlier, Sohel Rana and Swapna Khatun were produced before the court. Sohel confessed to the crime in his statement, while Swapna denied involvement. The case stems from the May 19 discovery of Ramisa’s body in a Pallabi apartment, where police said Sohel killed and dismembered the child after assaulting her. The investigation concluded on May 24 with a charge sheet against both accused, later transferred to the special tribunal for trial.

The verdict will conclude a fast-tracked trial that began after the completion of witness testimonies and arguments earlier this week.