Three convicted in Gangavathi rape and murder case of Israeli woman

Gangavathi: In a major legal development, the Gangavathi Additional District Court on Friday convicted three accused in the sensational case involving the rape of an Israeli woman and the murder of a foreign national near Sanapur in Gangavathi taluk.

The court pronounced Mallesh alias Handimalla, Sai and Sharanappa guilty after examining evidence and hearing arguments from both prosecution and defence. The quantum of punishment will be announced on February 16.

The brutal incident, which had shocked the entire nation, took place in March last year near the popular tourist spot of Sanapur, close to Hampi. According to the prosecution, the accused sexually assaulted the Israeli woman and murdered her male companion, triggering outrage across the country.

The crime had not only created fear among local residents but also cast a shadow over the region’s tourism sector, as Sanapur and nearby areas attract large numbers of international travellers every year.

Considering the seriousness of the case, Gangavathi police had formed special teams and launched an intensive investigation. Within a short period, the accused were arrested and a detailed chargesheet was filed before the court.

The investigation was completed within nine months, which is considered a swift process in a case of such complexity. The prosecution presented strong forensic and circumstantial evidence linking the accused to the crime.

During the trial, several witnesses, including local residents and police officials, testified before the court. Based on the material on record and witness statements, the court found all three accused guilty of the heinous offences.

Legal experts believe that the convicts are likely to face severe punishment considering the gravity of the crime, which involved both sexual assault and murder. The final sentencing on February 16 is being keenly awaited.

The case had drawn widespread media attention when it occurred, as it involved foreign nationals visiting Karnataka. The state government had then assured that strict action would be taken and that justice would be delivered swiftly.

Police officials expressed satisfaction over the verdict and stated that meticulous investigation and proper legal procedures helped in securing the conviction. “This judgment sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated and offenders will face strict punishment,” a senior officer said.

With the court now declaring the accused guilty, the victim’s family and well-wishers hope that the upcoming sentencing will bring closure to a tragic chapter that had shaken the conscience of society.

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