In a shocking incident early Tuesday morning, two women were brutally attacked by a 10-member gang in Kaloor, Kochi. The victims, who were out for morning tea, were assaulted around 4:30 AM near a tea stall on Chakkalapadam Road. The entire episode was captured on CCTV, showing one of the attackers kicking a woman and slamming her to the ground before kicking her again.
Arrests and Search
The city police have arrested three members of the gang and are searching for the remaining seven, including two women. The arrested individuals have been identified as Arun and Sabith from Palakkad, and Albin Simon from Malappuram. The prime accused, Akbar Ali, a native of Mannarkad and owner of Highland Lodge in Liberty Lane, Kaloor, is still at large. Police are also investigating his suspected criminal history.
Details of the Attack
The victims, both students preparing for government recruitment exams, were walking to have tea when they encountered the gang near the tea stall. The group reportedly questioned the women about their presence at such an early hour and made obscene gestures at one of them. When the women questioned the behavior, an argument broke out. As one of the victims began recording the incident on her mobile phone, Akbar snatched the phone, smashed it, and assaulted her. The accused then stomped on her chest and stomach, causing serious injuries. They also allegedly attempted to tear her dress.
Police Action
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shahansha K S stated that the remaining accused will be arrested soon. He emphasized that the women accompanying the attackers are also complicit in the crime. “It was the women who told the victims that the others have something to tell them,” he said. Police have invoked sections including assault or use of criminal force against a woman with intent to outrage her modesty, sexual harassment, and assault or use of criminal force against a woman with intent to disrobe, along with relevant sections for physical attack. The DCP added that additional sections and provisions of special laws are being considered.
Investigation and Concerns
The police confirmed that the victims did not know any of the accused. However, reports emerged that officers posed questions to the victims that could be perceived as victim-blaming. Police officials clarified that the detailed questioning was a procedural necessity. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are determined to bring all perpetrators to justice.
