An Israeli tourist and an Indian woman were gang-raped, and a man was killed in an attack near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, Karnataka, police said on Saturday.
According to Superintendent of Police Ram Arasiddi, the victims were part of a group of five, including two other male tourists—one of them American—who were stargazing near Sanapur Lake when three men on a motorcycle approached them late on Thursday night.
The assailants first asked the group for directions to a petrol station and then demanded money. When the group initially refused, one of the male tourists handed over 20 rupees, which allegedly led to a heated altercation.
The attackers then forced the male tourists into the Tungabhadra River canal before sexually assaulting the two women.
“Two of the men managed to survive, while the third was found dead in the canal on Saturday morning,” Arasiddi told Reuters.
Local police have arrested two suspects and are continuing investigations. A case has been registered at Gangavathi Rural Police Station under charges including extortion, robbery, gang rape, and attempted murder.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah termed it a "most heinous act" in a post on X, adding that he had directed authorities to ensure swift justice.
The attack comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over women's safety in India. Last year, the brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata sparked nationwide protests.
Hampi, a site of historical significance, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986 and attracts thousands of tourists annually. Authorities have assured increased security measures in the area.
The victims are receiving medical treatment at a government hospital, police said.
