Near the Hampi heritage site in Karnataka on Thursday night, two women, including a foreign national, were allegedly gangraped, and one male tourist was later found dead. The attack took place at the Sanapur Lake in Koppal district’s Anegundi region, a popular destination for backpackers.
On Saturday afternoon, Koppal police announced the arrest of two local residents, Mallesh and Sai Chetan, in connection with the incident. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the attack and rape of an Israeli citizen and homestay owner in Sanapur, Gangavathi taluk, calling it a “heinous act.”
In a post on X, he stated that he had immediately sought details from the police, ensured a thorough investigation, and directed authorities to swiftly identify those responsible. “The police have arrested two accused in connection with the case, and the investigation is ongoing,” Siddaramaiah added.
The victims, a 27-year-old Israeli tourist and a 29-year-old homestay operator were reportedly stargazing with three male tourists when three unidentified men on a motorcycle approached them. Initially asking for petrol, the attackers later demanded money. When the tourists refused, the assailants allegedly assaulted the group, raped the two women, and pushed the male tourists into the Tungabhadra River canal.
Among the three male tourists, two managed to escape with injuries. However, the third, identified as Bibash from Odisha, was reported missing. His body was found on Saturday morning. The other two men, Daniel from the US and Pankaj from Maharashtra, survived the attack.
Police investigation underway
The Gangavathi Rural Police have registered cases of rape, robbery, assault, and attempted murder against the three unidentified assailants. Murder charges are also expected to be added. Six police teams have been formed to track down the suspects, and the two women are receiving medical treatment.
(With PTI inputs)