A family outing to the beautiful Bhavli Waterfall near Bhavli Dam in Maharashtra's Igatpuri turned into a terrifying ordeal after a group of men allegedly assaulted the family, attempted to molest a woman, robbed them and chased them for some kilometres.
Nashik Rural Police has arrested nine people and are working to catch the remaining suspects.
It has horrified residents and tourists alike and has raised new alarm about visitor safety at one of the most popular monsoon spots in Nashik district. A case has been registered at Igatpuri Police Station based on the victim family's complaint.
Police said the family was on a trip to Bhavli Waterfall when local men tried to molest a woman from the family. When the family fought and confronted the accused, it turned into a physical attack.
The accused allegedly attacked family members with sticks and iron rods, robbed them of their belongings, vandalised their vehicle and threatened to kill them. The family then was chased for 8 to 15 kilometres before they managed to escape and seek police assistance, sources said.
Nashik Superintendent of Police Dr. D.S. Swami said police acted quickly after receiving emergency calls through the 112 helpline. Multiple police teams collaborated using wireless and mobile communication systems to track the accused.
Dr. Swami said investigators have identified several suspects using video evidence collected during the probe. He added that the case has been registered not only against the prime accused but also against those who allegedly assisted in arranging the vehicle used in the crime and others suspected of helping the attackers.
A tourist family's visit to the popular Bhavli Waterfall near Bhavli Dam in Igatpuri turned into a nightmare after they were allegedly attacked by a group of men, who also attempted to molest a woman from the family. Nashik Rural Police have detained nine suspects in connection… https://t.co/u16tW0k5K8 pic.twitter.com/l9AdIfkuGq
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Police said the detained suspects are from areas like Manik Khamb, Nandgaon Sado and Girnare. One of the alleged main accused, identified as Bhoir, is a history-sheeter and was already in a murder case.
The accused have been booked under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including assault, robbery, unlawful assembly, outraging the modesty of a woman, causing damage to property and attempt to murder.
The nine accused already in police custody are Vishal Machhindra Bhatate (27), Aniket Ganesh Manvedhe (24), Aniruddha Vithoba Bhagde (25), Sagar alias Lokesh Gokul Gite (22), Vinod Laxman Borade (26), Sachin Dattu Adole (29), Arjun Chindhu Adole (25), Devidas Kacharu Bhagat (25), and Ajay Bhushan Dalbhagat (20). Police said more arrests are likely as the investigation continues.
Following the incident, Nashik Rural Police have deployed additional personnel at the Bhavli Waterfall area to improve security and deter criminal activities. In addition, authorities have advised tourists, especially families and women, to be careful while visiting crowded tourist spots and to immediately contact the 112 emergency helpline in case of any emergency.
The incident has raised widespread outrage after videos on social media related to the attack appeared. Citizens and tourism stakeholders have asked for better policing, better surveillance and tougher security at popular tourist spots across Maharashtra to prevent such incidents from happening again. Police have assured that all those involved will be identified and brought to justice.
