A family visiting the popular Bhavli Waterfall near Igatpuri in Maharashtra allegedly faced a terrifying ordeal after a group of men reportedly attacked them, attempted to molest a woman travelling with them and later chased the family for several kilometres. Police have detained nine suspects while continuing efforts to trace the remaining accused.
The incident, which has triggered widespread concern over tourist safety in the region, is being investigated by the Nashik Rural Police following a complaint lodged by the victims.
Woman Allegedly Targeted, Family Assaulted During Visit
According to investigators, the family had travelled to the Bhavli Waterfall area when a confrontation allegedly began after some local men tried to outrage the modesty of one of the women in the group.
When the family resisted, the situation reportedly escalated into violence. The accused allegedly assaulted the victims with sticks and iron rods, robbed them of valuables, damaged their vehicle and threatened them with dire consequences.
Police said the attackers continued pursuing the family for nearly 8 to 15 kilometres before the victims managed to contact emergency services and seek help.
Police Detain Nine Suspects
Nashik Superintendent of Police Dr D.S. Swami said police teams acted swiftly after receiving an emergency call through the 112 helpline.
Nine suspects from villages surrounding the tourist destination have been detained for questioning. Investigators believe additional individuals were involved in the incident, and search operations are continuing.
Police also revealed that one of the key accused has a criminal history, including involvement in a murder case.
Video Footage Helped Identify Accused
Officials said the suspects were identified with the help of video recordings collected during the investigation.
According to the police, cases have been registered not only against those directly involved in the assault but also against persons suspected of assisting the accused, including individuals who allegedly arranged the vehicle used during the crime.
The accused have been booked under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to assault, robbery, unlawful assembly, outraging the modesty of a woman, attempt to murder, criminal intimidation and causing damage to property.
Security Increased at Tourist Spot
Following the incident, additional police personnel have been deployed around Bhavli Waterfall to enhance visitor safety.
Authorities have urged tourists to remain vigilant while visiting crowded destinations and advised visitors, especially families and women travellers, to exercise caution and immediately report any suspicious activity.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media after videos linked to the attack surfaced online, renewing concerns over security arrangements at popular tourist locations across Maharashtra.
Q1. Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred near Bhavli Waterfall close to Bhavli Dam in Igatpuri, Nashik district, Maharashtra.
Q2. What are the allegations?
The accused allegedly attempted to molest a woman, assaulted her family, robbed them, damaged their vehicle and chased them for several kilometres.
Q3. How many people have been detained?
Nine suspects have been detained, while police are searching for other accused believed to be involved.
Q4. What charges have been filed?
Police have invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to assault, robbery, attempt to murder, unlawful assembly, criminal intimidation, damaging property and outraging the modesty of a woman.
