Karkala: Sexual assault on woman — Police probe looking into multiple angles

Team Udayavani, Aug 25, 2024, 9:43 AM IST

Altaf (L) and Savera (Xavier) Richard Quadrous

Karkala: Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the alleged gang rape of a young Hindu woman in Ayyappa Nagar.

The accused, Altaf and Savera (Xavier) Richard Quadrous, have been remanded to judicial custody. The victim has been admitted to Manipal Hospital for further treatment. The heinous act has been condemned by community organizations across religious lines, including Hindu and Muslim groups.

Instagram Connection:

The victim, who worked at a beekeeping unit in Ayyappa Nagar, became acquainted with one of the accused, Altaf, a tipper driver, through Instagram three months ago.

On August 23, Altaf, who resides in Kukkunduru village, reportedly lured her to a secluded location and abducted her in his car. He then allegedly drugged her with alcohol laced with intoxicants before raping her. Altaf and Savera Richard Quadrous, who provided the alcohol, have been arrested by the police.

The car used in the crime, along with bottles and other items from the scene, have been seized. The police are searching for two more suspects believed to be involved in the crime.

Details of the Incident:

Altaf allegedly took the victim, who was working at a nearby site, about 15-18 kilometers away to a remote area on the pretext of showing her a piece of land. Two others were reportedly waiting there. The victim was given alcohol mixed with drugs and then raped while she was in a state of intoxication. It is gathered that, when the victim began to cry, Altaf drove her back home, where she was found in a semi-conscious state. The family and local residents immediately admitted her to the hospital.

Confirmation of Assault?

The confirmation of gang rape will depend on the victim’s comprehensive medical report and her statement to a judicial officer. However, the victim’s family members have claimed that doctors have confirmed the rape during the initial examination. A case has been registered at the Karkala City Police Station based on a complaint filed by the victim’s mother.

It is also gathered that Altaf, one of the accused, is married and originally from North India. He worked as a tipper driver in the local area and lived in rented houses in places like Pattonjikatte, Kabbettu, Joduraste, and Kukkunduru.

The other accused, Savera (Xavier) Richard Quadrous, a resident of Rangan Palke, was formerly a private bus driver and is now involved in the tipper business.

It is alleged that the accused were involved in illegal sand mining activities and led a lavish lifestyle, engaging in activities such as alcohol and drug consumption.

Previous Allegations:

It is also said that there are several complaints against Altaf, including one from five years ago when he harassed a young woman in Banglegudde. At that time, locals reportedly found multiple videos and photos of girls on his phone and reprimanded him.

Suspected Drug Mafia Involvement:

There is a suspicion that a drug mafia may be linked to this gang rape case. Allegations have been made that the drug trade has spread across the taluk, leading to harassment of girls and other illegal activities. It is believed that further investigation into the backgrounds of the accused and their connections may reveal more information.

Swift Police Action Praised:

The police arrested one suspect within an hour of the crime and the second suspect the following morning. The police have been commended for managing the case without any untoward incidents.

Victim’s Father Acquainted with Accused?:

The victim’s father, who works as a stone crusher, was reportedly acquainted with Altaf through his involvement in the sand business. The two are said to have met several times due to their work. One of the accused was introduced to the victim on Instagram, where he allegedly befriended and abducted her before committing the rape.

“We are conducting a thorough investigation from all angles in relation to the gang rape case. Based on the medical report, we will also investigate the source of the drugs provided. It is too early to comment on the involvement of a drug mafia. More details will emerge after a comprehensive investigation,” said Amit Singh, IGP.