Horror in Hampi: Israeli tourist raped, male friend murdered while stargazing

Karnataka police have arrested two suspects in connection with the brutal assault and gang rape of an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner near Hampi. The attack, which took place on Thursday night near Sanapur Lake, also resulted in the death of one of their male companions, whose body was discovered in the Tungabhadra Canal on Saturday.

Authorities identified the arrested suspects as local residents Mallesh and Sai Chetan. Law enforcement officials stated that the victims—comprising an Israeli woman, a homestay owner, and three male tourists from the United States, Odisha, and Maharashtra—were targeted while stargazing after dinner.

Tourists Attacked Near Sanapur Lake

According to police reports, the group had been sitting near the banks of the Tungabhadra Canal, enjoying music and playing the guitar, when three men on motorcycles approached them under the pretense of seeking directions to a petrol station.

Upon being informed that no petrol station was nearby, the assailants began demanding money from the group. When the tourists refused, the men turned violent, launching a physical assault.

The homestay owner later detailed in her police complaint that the attackers, who spoke Kannada and Telugu, forced the male tourists into the canal before raping her and the Israeli woman.

Male Tourist’s Death and the Aftermath

Authorities confirmed that one of the male tourists, who had been thrown into the Tungabhadra Canal, was found dead on Saturday morning. His two companions, a US national and an Indian from Maharashtra, managed to escape the water and are currently receiving treatment at a government hospital.

The homestay owner stated in her complaint that one of the attackers attempted to strangle her before sexually assaulting her. Meanwhile, another assailant dragged the Israeli tourist to a separate location and raped her. The attackers also stole cash amounting to ₹9,500 along with two mobile phones before fleeing on their motorcycles.

Arrests and Investigation

Koppal police launched an investigation shortly after the incident, leading to the arrests of Mallesh and Sai Chetan. Authorities are currently interrogating the suspects to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the attack.

Senior police officials have assured that all necessary legal actions are being taken to ensure justice for the victims. The incident has sparked outrage, raising concerns about tourist safety in the region.

Rising Safety Concerns in Karnataka’s Tourism Sector

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka, drawing thousands of visitors annually. However, the recent attack has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of both domestic and international travelers in the area.

Security measures are now being reviewed, with local authorities considering enhanced patrolling near tourist hotspots and increased surveillance around isolated locations such as Sanapur Lake.

Public Reaction and Calls for Justice

The case has drawn widespread attention, with human rights organizations and women’s safety advocates demanding stricter action against those responsible. Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for justice, as public outrage over the incident grows.

Officials have assured that the investigation will proceed swiftly, with forensic examinations and witness testimonies playing a crucial role in the case.

The arrested suspects remain in police custody as authorities continue their inquiries into the full extent of the crime.