Coimbatore Gang Rape: Survivor Abducted Near Airport
A 23-year-old postgraduate student was abducted and gang-raped near Coimbatore International Airport late Tuesday night, sparking outrage across Tamil Nadu. The victim, who was with a male friend, was forcibly taken by four men in an SUV, assaulted, and later abandoned. Police arrested three suspects after an encounter, while a manhunt continues for the fourth.
The Attack: How It Happened
The survivor, a student from a prominent Coimbatore college, was out with a friend near the airport when a white SUV approached them around 11:30 PM. The assailants attacked her friend, forced her into the vehicle, and drove to a secluded area.
- Assault: The men took turns raping her for nearly two hours before abandoning her near Singanallur.
- Rescue: The traumatized woman contacted her friend, who alerted police immediately.
Police Encounter Leads to Arrests
Coimbatore Police swiftly identified the SUV via CCTV and traced it to a stolen vehicle from Tiruppur. By Wednesday afternoon, three suspects were cornered near Pollachi.
- Shootout: The accused fired at police, resulting in an exchange of bullets.
- Arrests: Arjun (28) was shot in the leg, while Vikram (26) and Suresh (24) were captured unharmed.
- Fourth Suspect: Authorities are conducting raids to locate the remaining attacker.
Accused Have Criminal History
Investigations revealed prior records of theft and assault. Police suspect the men were intoxicated during the crime. Coimbatore Commissioner V. Balakrishnan confirmed stringent charges, including gang rape, kidnapping, and attempt to murder.
Public Outrage and Protests
The incident has triggered mass protests, with activists demanding better safety measures for women:
- Protests: Women’s groups demonstrated outside the Coimbatore Collector’s office.
- Criticism: Opposition leaders accused the DMK government of failing women’s safety.
Survivor’s Condition and Legal Action
The survivor is receiving medical care and psychological counseling. Her family has requested privacy. A fast-track court will hear the case soon, with police preparing a strong chargesheet.
Airport Security Under Scrutiny
Locals have long complained about poor lighting and inadequate policing near the airport. Authorities now promise:
- Increased CCTV surveillance
- Night patrols in isolated areas
- Tighter vehicle checks
Conclusion: A Call for Systemic Change
This horrific crime highlights glaring safety gaps in urban areas. While police acted swiftly, long-term solutions—better infrastructure, faster emergency responses, and stricter laws—are critical to prevent such atrocities.
Coimbatore remains tense as the search for the fourth suspect continues. The survivor’s fight for justice has just begun.
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