In a shocking case that has sparked public outrage, Coimbatore Police arrested three men on Monday for allegedly gang-raping a college student near the city’s international airport late Sunday night. Investigators revealed that the accused — identified as Satish alias Karuppasamy (30), his younger brother Karthi alias Kalaiselvan (21), and their relative Guna alias Thavasi (20) — were drunk and had earlier robbed a two-wheeler before the assault.
According to Police Commissioner A. Saravana Sundar, the trio, who work as labourers at a local lathe unit, consumed alcohol after stealing a vehicle. Later, they spotted the victim and her male friend sitting in a car parked near the airport. The men allegedly attacked the vehicle, shattered its windows, and assaulted the male companion, leaving him injured and unconscious. They then dragged the woman to a nearby deserted spot and took turns assaulting her.
Following the incident, the victim’s friend regained consciousness and alerted the police at around 11:20 pm. A massive manhunt was launched, and by Monday evening, a special police team traced the suspects to Vellakinaru on the city’s outskirts. When the police tried to arrest them, the accused allegedly attacked the officers. In retaliation, police fired at their legs to overpower them. All three men were injured and later admitted to a government hospital along with an injured constable.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin condemned the crime, calling it “inhumane and horrific.” He directed the police to file a chargesheet within a month and ensure the culprits face the maximum punishment under the law. The state government also announced that additional security measures would be reviewed to enhance women’s safety in and around Coimbatore.
The police have registered a case of gang rape under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Investigators are also verifying the criminal backgrounds of the accused, with reports indicating that at least two of them have prior offences. The survivor, a postgraduate student, is undergoing medical treatment and counselling.
