Mangaluru: A 33-year-old man was arrested in Vitla, Mangaluru taluk, for allegedly attacking a woman with a knife while she was returning home with her young son on Wednesday evening. The accused has been identified as Ashraf D (33).
Incident near victim’s residence
According to the complaint, the woman was riding home on a two-wheeler with her son after picking him up from school when the accused suddenly confronted them. Ashraf, armed with a knife, allegedly behaved inappropriately and attempted to assault her.
During the attack, the complainant sustained severe injuries to her fingers while trying to shield herself, leading to profuse bleeding. Alarmed by her cries for help, the woman’s mother and several neighbours rushed to the spot. Seeing them, the accused reportedly threatened the victim before fleeing.
Medical treatment and police response
The injured woman was immediately shifted to a government hospital, where she received treatment for her injuries. Following her complaint, the Vitla police registered a case of assault and criminal intimidation.
Police traced and arrested the accused shortly after the incident. He was produced before a court, which remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody pending further investigation.
Investigation underway
Authorities confirmed that an investigation is in progress to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the accused had been stalking or harassing the complainant prior to the incident. Officials stated that the accused would be interrogated further to establish if he was involved in similar offences earlier.
Community reaction
The violent incident has caused concern in the local community, with residents urging stronger preventive measures to ensure the safety of women, particularly during evening hours when they commute with children. Police have assured that strict action will be taken against the accused and that patrols in the area will be stepped up.
Conclusion
The arrest of Ashraf in the knife attack case has brought temporary relief to the victim’s family and neighbours, though the investigation continues. Police have reiterated their commitment to protecting women and ensuring that such acts of violence are met with swift legal consequences.