Bengaluru: A 27-year-old woman narrowly escaped a suspected murder attempt after her husband allegedly tried to attack her with a knife on a busy road at Dasanapura near Nelamangala on Wednesday afternoon.
Police identified the accused as Sanjay, 35, a native of Bihar. The victim, identified as Sonali, was rescued after a youth who witnessed the incident intervened and overpowered the accused before local residents rushed to the spot.
According to police officials, the incident occurred when Sonali was walking out of her residence. Sanjay allegedly arrived on a motorcycle wearing a helmet and initially posed as an unidentified person before suddenly holding a knife to her neck in an attempt to assault her.
Hearing the woman’s screams, nearby residents gathered at the location and helped restrain the accused. Police said some locals also assaulted him before handing him over to the Madanayakanahalli police station.
Bystander’s timely intervention saved woman
A senior police officer said the quick response of a youth present near the scene played a crucial role in preventing serious injury or possible loss of life.
The witness reportedly noticed suspicious behaviour and immediately intervened after seeing the accused threaten the woman with the knife.
Police said the youth managed to overpower Sanjay despite resistance, allowing the victim to escape safely.
Soon after, local residents rushed to the spot after hearing cries for help and assisted in controlling the accused until the police arrived.
Officials noted that public intervention in emergency situations can sometimes prevent major crimes, though they advised citizens to prioritise personal safety while assisting victims.
The incident created panic in the area as several passersby and residents gathered at the scene during the commotion.
Domestic disputes suspected behind attack
Police investigations revealed that the couple had reportedly been facing frequent domestic disputes for several months.
Officials said Sanjay and Sonali had been living separately due to ongoing differences in their relationship. Sources indicated that both individuals were in their second marriage.
Investigators suspect that Sanjay’s alleged alcohol addiction had contributed to repeated quarrels between the couple.
Police further stated that Sonali’s refusal to resume living with him may have triggered the alleged attack.
Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances leading to the incident and have questioned the accused regarding the sequence of events.
Video of incident goes viral
A video related to the incident reportedly circulated widely on social media platforms on Thursday, drawing public attention and concern.
The footage allegedly showed portions of the confrontation and the accused being restrained by members of the public.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, police said no formal case had been registered because the woman declined to file a complaint against her husband.
Under certain circumstances, police require a complaint from the victim to proceed with legal action, particularly in domestic disputes unless cognisable offences are independently established.
Officials stated that they had counselled the couple and were monitoring the situation.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns surrounding domestic violence and the importance of timely intervention and support mechanisms for individuals facing threats within personal relationships.
Police have urged the public to immediately report incidents involving threats, violence or suspicious behaviour to prevent escalation and ensure timely action.