According to police, the child, Iman Fatima, was found critically injured and covered in blood in a sewage drain. Investigators said she was sexually assaulted and then thrown into the drain with the intention of killing her.

She was initially shifted to Bhulleh Shah Hospital and later referred to Lahore General Hospital after her condition deteriorated.

A medical board was formed to oversee her treatment. The preliminary medical report confirmed that the child had been subjected to sexual assault.

Hospital authorities said she remains under treatment in the intensive care unit, but her condition has improved compared to earlier.

Mustafaabad SHO Tasaddiq said the victim’s parents are extremely poor and that the child would be handed over to Child Protection authorities after discharge.

He said DNA samples of more than 10 suspects have been collected and sent for analysis.

“We are confident that the suspects will be traced and arrested soon,” he added.

Police said raids are underway, and efforts are being intensified to bring those responsible to justice.