Foreign Tourists from Israel, US Attacked in Karnataka; Sexual Assault, Severe Injuries Reported

Koppal- A group of unidentified attackers targeted foreign tourists near Sanapur Lake, close to Gangamma Temple in Gangavathi taluk, around midnight on Thursday. The assailants physically assaulted the victims, with reports of an attempted sexual assault, leaving four people seriously injured and one missing.

The victims include 27-year-old Nama from Israel, 23-year-old Daniel from the USA, 43-year-old Pankaj from Nashik, Maharashtra, and two resort owners 29-year-old Ambika Nayak from Anegondi and 42-year-old Bibas from Odisha. The attack occurred while they were gathered by the lake for a music session. According to police sources, three unidentified individuals approached the group and attacked the women. When Daniel, Pankaj, and Bibas intervened, they were overpowered and pushed into a nearby canal. While Daniel and Pankaj managed to escape, Bibas went missing.

The injured received initial treatment at a government hospital before being transferred to a private facility for specialized care. Senior police officials, including DSP Siddalinganagouda Patil and CPI Somasekhar Juttal, arrived at the scene to investigate.

On Friday morning, Inspector Prakash Male and a dog squad launched a search operation, recovering a two-wheeler and a handbag containing a camera, power bank, broken guitar, gloves, cigarettes, and blood-stained clothing.

Superintendent of Police Ram L Arasiddi confirmed the attack and attempted sexual assault. He stated that two police teams have been formed to track down the suspects. Investigations are ongoing.