RAUTAHAT: The district of Rautahat in Province 2 has witnessed 16 rape cases in just two months. Moreover, only nine persons involved in the incidents are behind bars till date, official stats show.

According to District Police Office, Rautahat, the district witnessed eight rape cases in July, six in August and two in September. Likewise, police arrested 9 persons including a female on charges of involvement in rape over two months.

Meanwhile, eight of the accused are still at large, officials say.

A massive manhunt is underway to bring the absconding felons to justice, according to Deputy Superintendent of Police Mahendra Prasad Marasini.