In a distressing incident that has raised concerns regarding public safety, six men, including two police officers were arrested for allegedly molesting and attempting to abduct an 18-year-old nursing student from Devgad takula in the Sindhudurg district. The tragic incident took place while the victim was on her way to home from college.
Details of the Arrest
The individuals taken in custody include Vasai traffic constables Hariram Githe (34) and Praveen Ranade (33), a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) jawan, a State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) personnel, and two government employees. In response to the devastating incident, the Mira-Bhayander Vasai-Virar Commissionerate promptly suspended the traffic constables due to their failure to perform their duties and for tarnishing the image of the police department.
What were the Circumstances Surrounding the Incident?
According to police reports, the six men were travelling in a rented SUV from Vasai and were allegedly intoxicated during the incident. The SUV has since been seized, and all six men have undergone medical examinations to assess their blood alcohol content. Notably, the men were off-duty and not in uniform at the time of the incident.
The Nursing Student’s Account
The nursing student shared her harrowing experience, stating that around 5:30 PM. Hariram Githe stopped the SUV near a bus depot in Jamsande village. He approached her pretending to ask for directions. When she tried to leave, Hariram followed her. He made inappropriate comments and suggested that she should join him on a trip to Vasai.
The situation intensified dramatically when the other five men emerged from the vehicle. One of them allegedly instructed the others to forcibly put the girl into the SUV. In a frightening development, they grabbed her hand and began dragging her towards the vehicle.
Public Intervention Saved Nursing Student
The Nursing student’s cries for help were fortunately noticed. She raised an alarm, which attracted the attention of passersby. Concerned citizens quickly surrounded the SUV and intervened, confronting the six men. The suspects were reportedly beaten by the crowd and made them sit on the road until the police arrived.
Police Response and Further Investigation
Upon arrival, law enforcement officials took the accused into custody and transported them to the police station for further questioning. The police have initiated an investigation into the incident, examining each individual involved and the circumstances that permitted such behavior to take place.
Community Reaction and Response
The incident has profoundly impacted the local community, raising concerns regarding safety and the conduct of law enforcement officials. Many residents have voiced their anger, calling for stricter measures to ensure the safety of women in public spaces. The involvement of those who are meant to protect the public in such gruesome behavior has particularly angered community members.
As the investigation unfolds, the is expected to provide further updates regarding the charges against those who have been arrested. This incident highlights the persistent challenges related to women’s safety and the need for accountability within law enforcement agencies. The local community is hopeful that justice will be served and that measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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