Israeli tourist, homestay operator gang-raped in Karnataka's Hampi
What's the story
In a shocking incident in Karnataka, an Israeli tourist and a 29-year-old homestay owner were allegedly gang-raped while stargazing by the Sanapur Lake near Hampi. The assault happened around 11:00pm on Thursday when the two women were spending a peaceful evening by the canal with three male tourists. Police reports said one male tourist from Odisha drowned after the attack.
Attack details
Perpetrators demanded money and sexually assaulted victims
As per the homestay owner's complaint, three bikers approached them asking for petrol. When they informed them there were no petrol pumps nearby, they demanded ₹100. When they refused, the bikers became violent, beat up the group, and sexually assaulted both women. The assailants reportedly spoke in Kannada and Telugu during the attack.
Escape and aftermath
Two male tourists escaped, 1 drowned
Two of the male tourists escaped the assault, Daniel from the US and Pankaj from Maharashtra. However, Bibash from Odisha drowned after the incident. Local police had launched a search with fire officials and a dog squad to find him, and his body was later found. Superintendent of Police Ram L Arasiddi confirmed immediate action was taken after complaints from the victims.
Legal proceedings
Case registered; suspects identified
A case has been registered at the Gangavathi Rural Police Station under various sections pertaining to extortion, robbery or dacoity, with intent to cause death or grievous hurt, gang rape, and attempted murder under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. "We have registered the case and identified the suspects. Special teams have been formed, and efforts are underway to nab them," police said. The victims are undergoing treatment at a government hospital.