Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) R Hithendra has directed Koppal SP Ram L Arasiddi to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of foreign tourists. The directive, issued via a letter dated June 30, follows a memo from DG & IGP MA Saleem in connection with last year’s Sanapur incident.
On March 6, this year, a 27-year-old Israeli tourist and her homestay host were sexually assaulted and robbed, while an Odia tourist drowned. Additionally, an American tourist and a local were attacked, all incidents occurring at night near Sanapur Lake in Gangavathi taluk, about 25km from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi. Two suspects, Mallesh alias Handi Mallesh (22) and Kameshwar Rao (21), were arrested soon after. A third accused, Sai Ram (23), was later nabbed in Tamil Nadu.
Sanapur village, located 25km from Hampi and 350km from Bengaluru, is a peaceful tourist destination nestled in the hills along the Tungabhadra River. It draws visitors from the US, Europe, and the Middle East. However, its serene environment masks serious criminal activity that affects both locals and tourists.
Highlighting a surge in foreign tourist arrivals over the past six years, the ADGP noted that Koppal received 53,405 foreign visitors in 2024, ranking third in Karnataka after Mysuru and Udupi. The letter emphasized the urgent need for strengthened tourist safety protocols.
Officials say the area’s remoteness has become a magnet for anti-social elements. A former district police officer, speaking anonymously, said, “The region attracts petty criminals, gamblers, and drug users, who often target lone or small groups of tourists. Many cases go unreported or come to light only after delays. The recent rape case, however, was particularly alarming.”
Policing remains a challenge due to limited force presence and a large, isolated terrain. Poor infrastructure, lack of quality accommodation, and inadequate roads make the area even more vulnerable after dark. Additionally, over 100 unregistered resorts, allegedly linked to local political and business circles, complicate law enforcement efforts.
Gangavathi Rural Police acknowledged ongoing issues, especially drug-related crimes. Records show more than 50 drug-related cases annually, along with 7-8 suicides, some later reclassified as homicides.
The ADGP’s letter urged the SP to address these concerns. In response, SP Ram L Arasiddi confirmed receiving the letter and said, “We are preparing a report outlining measures taken for tourist safety. We still have a week to submit it.” He declined to disclose specific actions but assured that details would be made available after submission.