Horrific Crime Near Hampi: Israeli Tourist and Local Guide Assaulted, Fellow Traveler Killed in Brutal Attack
Anegundi, Karnataka: In a deeply disturbing incident that has shaken the tourism community, two women, including a tourist from Israel, were brutally assaulted while a male tourist from Odisha lost his life after being pushed into the Tungabhadra River canal. The tragic attack took place on the night of March 6 in the picturesque Anegundi region near Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka.

Attack on Tourists by Local Youths in the Dead of Night

According to reports, a group of four tourists, accompanied by a female guide who also ran a local resort, was enjoying a peaceful evening near the river. The travelers included a 23-year-old American man, a 26-year-old tourist from Odisha, a 42-year-old Indian tourist from Nasik, and a young Israeli woman. The group had ventured into the area on scooters for a stargazing experience, unaware of the danger that awaited them.

As they sat by the river playing a guitar and admiring the night sky, three local youths arrived on a motorcycle. The assailants, who spoke Kannada and Telugu, initially approached the tourists asking for petrol and then demanded Rs 100. When the group refused, the situation escalated into a violent attack.

Brutal Assault: Male Tourists Pushed into the River, Women Subjected to Horrific Crime

Without provocation, the attackers turned violent and shoved the three men into the Tungabhadra canal. Despite their desperate attempts to stay afloat, only two managed to swim ashore, while the third, identified as Bibash from Odisha, tragically drowned. Meanwhile, the two women left on the riverbank were subjected to a horrifying sexual assault.

The attackers also looted the tourists, stealing two mobile phones and Rs 9,500 in cash before fleeing the scene on their motorcycle. The traumatized survivors immediately sought help, and a police complaint was filed by the local guide the next morning at the Gangavathi Rural Police Station.

Police Investigation and Arrests: Two Suspects Caught, One Still on the Run

Following the complaint, Koppal district police launched an intense investigation and arrested two of the three accused. The suspects, identified as Sai Chetan and Mallesh, are both residents of the Gangavathi region. Authorities are actively searching for the third accused, who remains at large.

Koppal Superintendent of Police Dr. Ram Arasiddi confirmed that the body of Bibash was recovered from the canal and handed over to his family. He further assured that the police are leaving no stone unturned to ensure justice for the victims.

Scenic Anegundi Becomes the Scene of Tragedy, Impact on Tourism Feared

Anegundi, known for its budget-friendly resorts and tranquil old-world charm, has long been a favorite among backpackers exploring the historical remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire. However, this heinous crime has cast a dark shadow over the region’s reputation as a safe tourist destination.

Many visitors, both domestic and international, are expressing concerns about security in the area, leading to fears of a decline in tourism, which is a crucial source of livelihood for the local community.

Survivor’s Testimony: Heart-Wrenching Account of the Night of Terror

In her complaint, the local guide described the terrifying ordeal in harrowing detail. She recounted how the attackers first pretended to be in need of help before launching their brutal assault.

“The three men pushed our friends into the canal. Two of them somehow managed to escape, but we couldn’t find Bibash anywhere. Then, they attacked us. We screamed and cried, but they didn’t stop,” she stated in her testimony.

She further revealed that after the assault, the attackers quickly fled, leaving the survivors in a state of shock and fear. The American tourist displayed immense courage, managing to rescue the Nasik tourist from drowning. However, by the time they could search for Bibash, it was too late.

Government’s Response: CM Condemns the Attack, Vows Swift Action

In response to the horrific incident, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took to social media to condemn the attack. In a post on X, he described the assault as a “most heinous act” and assured that his government is taking all necessary steps to bring the culprits to justice.

“As soon as the incident was reported, I obtained information from the relevant police, conducted a thorough investigation, and instructed them to quickly identify the culprits. Two of the accused have been arrested, and the search for the third is ongoing,” the Chief Minister stated.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all tourists in Karnataka and announced plans to implement stronger security measures in tourist hotspots to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Ensuring Tourist Safety: Authorities Urged to Strengthen Security Measures

Following this appalling crime, safety concerns have intensified among tourists and local business owners. Travel operators and homestay owners in Anegundi and Hampi are now urging the government to increase police patrolling and install surveillance cameras in vulnerable areas.

Tourism in Hampi, known for its magnificent temples and rich cultural heritage, has flourished over the years. However, incidents like this pose a major threat to the region’s tourism industry. Stakeholders are calling for immediate intervention to restore confidence among travelers and safeguard the area's reputation as a premier historical destination.

A Tragic Night That Shook the Nation: Seeking Justice for the Victims

As investigations continue and authorities intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining suspect, the victims and their families demand swift justice. The traumatic incident serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities that travelers—especially women—face, even in places known for their cultural and historical significance.

The attack near Hampi has sent shockwaves across the country, reigniting conversations on women’s safety, tourist security, and the urgent need for stricter laws against sexual violence. As Karnataka police work to bring all perpetrators to justice, the incident underscores the need for collective action to ensure such horrors never repeat in the future.

With global attention now focused on the case, the world watches as India’s justice system is put to the test, hoping for swift and severe punishment for those responsible for this unforgivable crime.