Three men arrested in Coimbatore for allegedly abducting and raping a college student near the airport; accused shot in legs while trying to flee; probe continues.
Police Action in Coimbatore After Student’s Assault Sparks Outrage
Coimbatore City Police on Tuesday arrested three men accused of abducting and sexually assaulting a female college student near the Coimbatore airport. The accused — identified as Guna, Karuppasamy and Karthik (alias Kaleeswaran) — were captured after an overnight search; officers said they had to shoot the three in the legs when the men attempted to flee during the arrest. A head constable was also injured in the encounter.
According to police statements and ANI reporting, the survivor had been travelling with a male friend when three men allegedly broke the car window, assaulted the friend and forcibly took the woman to another location where the assault occurred. The student was rescued the following morning and is currently receiving treatment at a government hospital in Coimbatore. Authorities formed seven teams to track down the suspects after the attack was reported.
The arrests and the circumstances of the use of force have already triggered political reactions in Tamil Nadu. Leaders from the BJP publicly criticised the state government and accused it of failing to protect women and children, saying such incidents point to deteriorating law-and-order. The matter has become a flashpoint in local political debate as parties press for swift justice and strengthened safety measures.
From an investigative standpoint, police sources say the injured accused have been admitted to Government Hospital, Coimbatore, and post-arrest procedures — including medical examinations, FIR registration and forensic steps — are underway. For readers and community stakeholders, the case underscores persistent concerns about public safety around transport hubs, the need for quick police response, and greater vigilance to protect students and young women in public spaces.
