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Indore, Oct 25 (IANS) In a disturbing incident highlighting women’s safety concerns in Indore, Madhya Pradesh Police arrested 28-year-old Azad Nagar resident Akeel for allegedly molesting two Australian women cricketers in Indore who were staying at a premier hotel for the ICC Women’s World Cup.
According to police officials, “The incident took place around 11 am on Thursday when both the players were going to a cafe located about half a kilometer away from the hotel.”
The players immediately sent an SOS alert. The two contacted their team’s security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security liaison officers and dispatched a vehicle to assist. The security manager of the Australian team also lodged a complaint at the MIG police station.
Upon receiving the information, senior police officers met both the players, recorded their statements and filed a First Information Report under sections 74 (use of criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman) and section 78 (stalking) of the Indian Code of Justice (BNS) at the MIG police station.
A police officer said a bystander noted down the number of the suspect’s motorcycle, based on which the accused Akil Khan was caught.
Police said on Saturday that he was caught late on Friday night and investigation is underway.
Police officials said Akil, riding a black motorcycle, approached the players, slowed down his vehicle and touched them inappropriately before speeding away.
Frightened, one of the victims immediately contacted team security officer Danny Simmons, who informed the hotel authorities and Vijay Nagar police station.
Coincidentally, during the alleged harassment a quick-thinking passerby noted down the registration number of the bike.
Taking advantage of the vehicle registration provided by the eyewitness, a dedicated team traced Akil to his Azad Nagar residence in North Indore and nabbed him less than four hours after the report was filed.
“The suspect’s motorcycle exactly matches the eyewitness’s description and number plate,” police said.
Yet, the swift arrests belie deep systemic flaws. Police insiders have admitted ‘intelligence lapse’ in the operation. Given the high-profile sporting event and the insecurity of the female cricketer, “there were inadequate security measures around the hotel”, he said on Saturday.
On the short route to the café, which is a common route for the team to travel, no regular patrols or undercover personnel were deployed.
The accused Akil, working as a local delivery executive, had his vehicle seized. Further investigation is going on in the matter.
“Khan has previous criminal cases registered against him and the investigation is ongoing,” police said.
–IANS
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