One gangrape suspect is infected with HIV/Aids

One of the suspects involved in the gangrape of a woman at Alive Bagilu Beach of Thota Bengre, is said to be infected with HIV/Aids.

Seven people, including three minors, were involved in the incident. They are in judicial custody at present. They are in separate cells.

The victim has been tested negative for the virus so far. The suspect has been availing Antioretroviral therapy,” senior police officials told DH.

MLC S L Bhoje Gowda, after visiting the spot said that the victim should be double the compensation amount.

He instructed district social welfare department to release a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the victim.

“The incident has exposed the district administration’s apathy in ensuring safety of the public,” he charged.

“This place is poorly illuminated and has gained notoriety for robbery, drug abuse, assault on unsuspecting couple. The local residents informed me that even a previous deputy commissioner was not spared. Many of the attacks on the couples had gone unreported,” he said and promised to get the police set up an outpost at the earliest.

He criticised the police for not entertaining the victim’s complaint initially. During his interaction with her, she revealed that two police officers did not respond to her complaint.

An assistant sub-inspector attached to Bantwal police station has been suspended in this regard.

“There should be stern action against the duo,” he urged.