Israeli tourist gang-raped in Karnataka; Co-traveler drowns after attackers push men into canal

In a shocking incident in Karnataka’s Koppal district, a 27-year-old Israeli tourist and a homestay owner were allegedly gang-raped by three men on Thursday night. The attack took place near the Tungabhadra Left Bank Canal, where the two women were stargazing along with three other male travelers. The accused threw the men into the canal before assaulting the women, resulting in the drowning of one victim.

According to police reports, the victims were approached by the perpetrators under the pretense of asking for petrol. When the travelers refused to pay them Rs 100, the attackers turned violent. They beat up the group, forcibly pushed three of the men into the canal, and then sexually assaulted the two women. While two of the men managed to swim to safety, Bibash from Odisha drowned. His body was recovered on Saturday morning.

Superintendent of Police Ram L Arasiddi confirmed that the women, who were severely traumatized, have been admitted to a government hospital and are receiving medical attention. He assured that immediate action was taken after the complaint was filed and that two special teams are actively investigating the case. The accused have been identified and will be arrested soon.

Eyewitnesses and survivors of the attack have provided crucial statements to the police. The American tourist and the traveler from Maharashtra who survived are assisting in the investigation. A case has been registered under charges of rape, gang-rape, and robbery. The police have also deployed a dog squad and forensic experts to gather further evidence from the crime scene.

The incident has sparked outrage, with demands for stricter security measures for tourists and travelers in Karnataka. Authorities have assured that stringent action will be taken against the culprits to ensure justice for the victims.