The FBI is asking for help in a decades-old case involving the alleged sexual assault of a female patient by her doctor.
According to investigators, the alleged assault occurred on October 3rd, 1996, while Zahidul Islam was practicing medicine at a major Philadelphia hospital.
Doctor Accused of Drugging Patient
Authorities say they believe that while practicing medicine at that hospital, Islam gave a patient some medication to make her groggy and then he forcibly raped her. The victim was recovering from surgery when she was allegedly assaulted in her hospital room.
A federal warrant was issued for his arrest in the summer of 1997. He is facing unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse charges.
Description and Photo
He is described as follows:
- Date of Birth Used: October 1, 1955
- Place of Birth: Bangladesh
- Hair: Black
- Eyes: Brown
- Height: 5′ 5″
- Weight: 160 pounds
- Sex: Male
- Race: White/Central Asian
- Scars/Marks: None known
Zahidul Islam is wanted by the FBI in Philadelphia PA – Photo: FBI / Canva
Zahidul Islam is wanted by the FBI in Philadelphia PA – Photo: FBI / Canva
FBI Says Suspect May Have Fled Area
The FBI says Islam has ties to New York state and Montreal. He may be traveling with his wife, who is also a physician, and should be considered armed and dangerous.
How to Contact the FBI
If you have any information concerning Islam, you can contact the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office at (215) 418-4000. Anonymous tips are welcome.
The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Chris Coleman, a South Jersey native, is the brand manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM and afternoon on-air personality on WPUR Cat Country 107.3 in Atlantic City, NJ. He joined the station in February 1998 and covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey for Townsquare Media. Story tips can be sent to chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com .
