Following the tragic rape and murder incident near Hampi, Karnataka Police has intensified security efforts in the region. Ram L Arasiddi, Superintendent of Police for Koppal, conducted raids on homestays and resorts in Basapura, Anegundi, and Sanapur, thoroughly verifying documentation at these establishments. Authorities have significantly stepped up patrolling in response to the incident.
On Monday, police apprehended the third accused in the Hampi rape case. The accused, identified as 27-year-old Saranabasava, a carpenter by profession, had been absconding since the crime. He was arrested by the Gangavathi Rural Police in Chennai and has now been brought back to Karnataka.
SP Ram Arasiddi said that security and surveillance have been intensified in the affected areas. “Given the seriousness of the matter, we have increased patrolling and inspections, especially at night. Regular checks at resorts are ongoing. We are also using NDPS kits and have registered ten cases in the last three months. Surprise inspections will continue, and any violations or contraband will be dealt with strictly,” he stated.
The Karnataka State Commission for Women has also taken cognizance of the case and has written to SP Arasiddi, demanding a detailed report on the legal action taken. The Commission, in its letter, called the gangrape of two women—including a foreign national—near Sanapur lake and Junglee Road on March 6, a deeply shocking event for the state and the nation.
The Commission urged authorities to ensure the strictest punishment for the accused and called for stronger measures to prevent such crimes in tourist areas. They also emphasized the need for better protection for women at tourist spots and requested an official report detailing the legal proceedings and actions taken so far.
According to police, the two women—one of them an Israeli national—were allegedly raped by three men near the Hampi heritage site in Vijayanagara district. The male tourist accompanying them was later found dead, further intensifying the gravity of the case.
(With inputs from ANI)