Chitradurga Acid and Machete Attack Leaves Five Injured, Accused Flees Scene
A horrific incident of domestic violence unfolded in the Malappanahatti area of Chitradurga on Thursday, where a 44-year-old man allegedly attacked five people, including his estranged wife and their young daughter, using acid and a machete before fleeing the scene. The accused, identified as Mohammad Suhail, an auto driver from Nehru Nagar, is currently at large as police launch a manhunt.
Details of the Violent Assault
The attack occurred when Suhail's wife, Tasneem Banu, along with her sisters Nagma Naik and Neha, had traveled from Bengaluru to Chitradurga with their children to celebrate a festival. Learning of their presence, Suhail forcibly entered their residence and launched a brutal assault. He first attacked Tasneem Banu with a machete, causing severe injuries.
When Nagma Naik, Neha, Neha's 4-year-old daughter, and Suhail's own 11-year-old daughter attempted to intervene and protect Tasneem, the situation escalated dramatically. In a shocking turn, Suhail threw acid on all five individuals, compounding their injuries before escaping from the location.
Victims' Condition and Hospitalization
All five victims sustained serious and potentially life-altering injuries from the combined acid and machete attack. They were initially treated at Chitradurga District Hospital for emergency care. Given the severity of their conditions, particularly the acid burns requiring specialized treatment, all victims were subsequently shifted to a private hospital in Davangere for advanced medical attention and ongoing care.
Background of Marital Discord and Separation
The couple had been living separately for the past eight months due to persistent marital disputes and domestic abuse. Tasneem Banu revealed that she had moved to Bengaluru to escape her husband's abusive behavior, despite giving him multiple opportunities to reform. "I gave him many chances to mend his ways, but it was of no use," she stated angrily, demanding strict punishment for her husband.
She expressed particular outrage that Suhail committed this violent crime while she was visiting Chitradurga, highlighting his premeditated actions. The separation followed years of conflict, with police confirming that disputes had plagued the relationship from the beginning.
Police Investigation and Statements
Superintendent of Police Ranjith Kumar Bandaru visited the attack scene personally to conduct a thorough investigation. Speaking to media representatives, SP Bandaru confirmed that an acid attack case has been registered under the jurisdiction of Kote Police Station. "The couple were having disputes from the beginning, and they separated eight months ago. Despite this, the accused harboured resentment. We will arrest him and take appropriate action," he assured.
The police have launched an intensive search operation to locate and apprehend Mohammad Suhail, who remains a fugitive. Authorities are examining all possible leads and evidence to ensure his swift capture and prosecution under relevant sections of the law, including those pertaining to acid attacks and attempted murder.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This violent incident has sent shockwaves through the local community in Chitradurga, raising serious concerns about domestic violence and acid attack crimes in the region. It underscores the urgent need for stronger protective measures for victims of domestic abuse and more effective enforcement of laws against such brutal assaults.
The case also highlights the devastating consequences when marital disputes escalate to extreme violence, particularly when children and other family members become collateral victims. Community leaders and women's rights organizations are likely to call for increased awareness and preventive measures following this tragedy.
