In the shocking Hampi gang rape case in Karnataka, where two women including an Israeli tourist were gang-raped, the police have taken major action. According to police officials, two accused have been arrested in this case. The arrested accused have been identified as Sai Mallu and Chetan Sai, both residents of Gangavathi town. Koppal SP Dr. Ram Arasiddi informed ANI that, "We have arrested two people. Both are from Gangavathi. One more person is still absconding, and we will arrest him soon." However, the police have not yet revealed the identity of the third accused.
Incident Happened At Sanapur Lake
According to reports, two women, including a 27-year-old Israeli tourist, were gang-raped and brutally assaulted on the banks of the Sanapur Lake in Hampi on Thursday night. Not only this, but the three male tourists who were accompanying them were also attacked and thrown into a canal. Unfortunately, one of them lost his life after being thrown into the canal, while two others survived with injuries. This horrific incident has shocked the people of Karnataka and raised serious questions about tourist safety.
The police said the incident took place at around 11 PM on Thursday night when the group, including a 29-year-old homestay operator, a 27-year-old Israeli tourist, and three male tourists, were enjoying music and playing guitar after dinner on the banks of the Tungabhadra Canal near Sanapur Lake. According to the information, the three male tourists included one from the United States and two others from Odisha and Maharashtra.
Accused Demanded Money
The homestay operator mentioned in her police complaint that around 11 PM, three men on a motorcycle approached them. The men asked where they could find a petrol pump. After being informed that there was no petrol pump nearby, the men demanded Rs 100 from them. The complaint stated that the group was unfamiliar with these men, so the homestay operator refused to give money. However, one of the tourists from Odisha gave them Rs 20 to avoid any conflict.
The FIR report stated that despite giving them money, the accused started arguing and threatened the group. They even said that they would hit them with stones if they didn't give them more money.
When Refused, They Attacked
When the group refused to give more money, the three accused started abusing them in Kannada and Telugu language. Soon after, they pushed the three male tourists into the canal and brutally gang-raped the two women. The homestay operator was also physically assaulted by the accused. The accused then snatched their bag, stole two mobile phones, and took away Rs 9,500 cash from them.
The complainant further stated that two of the three male tourists managed to escape, but one tourist went missing. On Saturday night, his body was recovered from the canal, confirming his death. The police have also confirmed that both women are currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.
Police Filed Case Under Several Sections
Based on the complaint, a case has been registered at Gangavathi Rural Police Station under sections related to extortion, robbery, dacoity with intent to kill, attempt to murder, and gang rape under the Indian Penal Code (BNS). The police have arrested two accused and are continuously searching for the third accused.
SP Assured Strict Action Against The Accused
Speaking to ANI, Koppal SP Dr. Ram Arasiddi said, "We have arrested two people so far. Their names are Sai Mallu and Chetan Sai, both residents of Gangavathi. The third accused is still absconding, but we will catch him very soon. We assure that strict action will be taken against all the accused involved in this horrific crime."
Victims Undergoing Treatment
Currently, both women, including the Israeli tourist, are undergoing treatment at a local hospital. The police are also recording their statements and providing them assistance. Meanwhile, the family of the deceased tourist has been informed about his death, and arrangements are being made to send his body to his home state.
This horrific incident has once again raised questions about the safety of tourists in Hampi, a popular tourist destination. Police are making continuous efforts to ensure the arrest of the third accused and deliver justice to the victims.
