Haveri, Karnataka: A group of gang rape accused who were recently released on bail shocked the public by celebrating their release with a roadshow in Karnataka. The incident took place in Akki Alur town of Haveri district, where videos of the accused riding in cars and on bikes, shouting and cheering loudly, have gone viral on social media. The celebrations were reportedly organised by friends of the accused, drawing sharp criticism online.
The accused have been identified as Aftab Chandankatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samivulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoaib Mulla, Tausif Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri. They were among a group of 19 arrested in a 2024 gang rape case reported by a woman in Hanagal. According to her complaint, the assailants forcibly entered her hotel room while she was with a friend, dragged her to a nearby forest, and raped her. Following her report, police launched an investigation and apprehended the suspects.
After getting bail in Haveri accused celebrate victory procession
Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausip Choti, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Aptab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, and Riyaz Savikeri.
Kudos to our judiciary 😡 pic.twitter.com/2xctTu2qPC
— Nandini Idnani 🚩🇮🇳 (@nandiniidnani69) May 23, 2025
Although the survivor had initially identified the accused, she reportedly struggled to confirm their identities during the court proceedings. As a result, 12 of the accused were released on bail ten months ago, with the remaining seven—considered the main accused—granted bail more recently. The viral roadshow videos have triggered outrage among netizens, who are demanding strict action against the celebratory conduct of the accused. Police are now under pressure to investigate the incident and take appropriate measures.