Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 9: In response to the horrific gangrape of an Israeli tourist and an Indian homestay owner in Koppal district, Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara has announced that the respective embassies of Israel and the United States will be informed. The incident, which also saw an American tourist attacked and pushed into a canal, has prompted the state government to enhance security at popular tourist destinations, including Hampi.

Speaking to the media, Parameshwara assured that the government is extending all necessary assistance to the victims. "Once their statements are recorded before the magistrate, they are free to leave. They will be brought to Bengaluru and later sent back to their countries safely," he stated.

The tragic incident occurred on March 6 when four tourists—23-year-old Daniel from the US, a female Israeli tourist, and two Indian men, Pankaj Rao Amrut Rao Patil from Nashik, Maharashtra, and Bebash from Odisha—were staying at the Heartland homestay. The group had ventured out for stargazing on bikes without informing the police.

According to reports, the three accused approached the tourists at the secluded location and demanded money. When the group resisted, they were attacked. Daniel, Pankaj, and Bebash were pushed into a canal while the two women were assaulted. Daniel and Pankaj managed to swim to safety, but Bebash’s body was discovered the next day near the hydel power park close to Mallapura village.

The 29-year-old homestay owner, originally from Tamil Nadu, and the Israeli tourist later provided their statements under Section 164 of the CrPC before a magistrate.

Parameshwara emphasized the importance of safety for international visitors. "The diplomatic missions of Israel and the US will be briefed, and we will take every measure to ensure their safe return home," he said. He also stressed that the state government would be stepping up security in major tourist hubs, including Hampi, to prevent such incidents in the future.