December 16, 2025
THIMPHU – Police in Wangdue have detained a 24-year-old monk on charges of raping a 15-year-old girl, a student from a school in Gasa.
According to police, the suspect and the minor became acquainted through Facebook more than a year ago. The two reportedly began communicating on social media in October last year before later meeting in Wangdue, where they are alleged to have engaged in sexual intercourse.
The case came to light after the girl was found to be pregnant. During the investigation, the minor informed police that the monk was the father of the child. The suspect has also reportedly admitted to knowing the girl.
Under the Penal Code, a person is guilty of raping a child above 12 years if they engage in sexual intercourse with a child between the ages of 12 and 18. The offence is classified as a second-degree felony under the Penal Code (Amendment) Act of Bhutan 2011.
If convicted, the suspect faces a prison sentence ranging from nine to 15 years.