In a recent development, the Udupi JMFC court has remanded Altaf and Xavier Richard Quadros, two accused in the gang rape case of a 21-year-old woman from Aiyyapana Nagara, to police custody for four days. The victim, who is currently receiving advanced medical care at Manipal Hospital, has been the subject of widespread condemnation from both Hindu and Muslim communities.
The incident began when the victim, employed at the Apiculture Unit in Aiyappa Nagara, was lured by Altaf, a tipper driver she had met on Instagram. Altaf, residing in Kukkundoor village, allegedly deceived the victim into visiting a secluded area where he, along with two others, sexually assaulted her after administering drug-laced alcohol. Shraved Richard Quadros, who provided the liquor, has also been arrested. Police are actively searching for two additional suspects involved in the crime.
On Friday afternoon, Altaf took the victim to PaUlli, about 15 to 18 km from her workplace, claiming he owned property there. He led her into a forested area where the assault occurred. The victim, semi-conscious and vomiting, was returned home and subsequently hospitalized by her family and locals.
A comprehensive medical report and the victim’s statement will confirm the extent of the assault. Preliminary findings have confirmed sexual assault, and a case has been filed at Karkala City Police Station based on the victim’s mother’s complaint.
Accused Altaf, previously involved in sexual harassment and illegal sand trafficking, and Shraved Richard Quadros, a former private bus driver, have both been linked to illicit activities. The victim’s father, a stonebreaker, was acquainted with Altaf, who also operated a sand business.
Udupi district SP Dr. Arun K revealed that the victim’s blood tested positive for narcotic substances, while the accused’s tests did not. The substance found in Altaf’s car is being analyzed at the Forensic Science Laboratory. The investigation is ongoing to trace the drug’s origin, with a separate case registered under the NDPS Act. The swift police action has been widely appreciated, and further inquiries will follow.
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