Karnataka Court Convicts Three in Heinous Hampi Tourist Attack, Awaits Reports for Sentencing
A district court in Koppal, Karnataka, has delivered a landmark conviction in the shocking Hampi tourist rape and murder case that sent shockwaves through the region. On February 6, 2026, the court found three local men guilty of a brutal assault in March 2025 that resulted in the murder of an Indian tourist, the gang rape of an Israeli tourist and an Indian home stay owner, and the assault and robbery of an American tourist. The case has now been posted for arguments on sentencing on February 16, with the court seeking detailed reports on the convicts' backgrounds to determine appropriate punishment.
Details of the Conviction and Charges
The three convicts, identified as Mallesh alias Handi Malla alias Mallayya (22), Sai alias Chaitanya Sai alias Saikumar (21), and Sharanappa alias Sharanabasavaraj (27), all laborers from Koppal with a history of crime in the area, were convicted under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Specifically, they were found guilty of:
- Murder of Bhibash Kumar Nayak, a 26-year-old from Odisha, under Section 103(1).
- Attempt to murder Daniel Pitas (23, from the US) and Pankaj Patil (42, from Maharashtra) under Section 109.
- Robbery of the Indian woman guide under Section 309(6).
- Gang rape and rape of the Indian guide by Mallesh and Sai, and of the Israeli tourist by Sai and Sharanappa under Sections 70(1) and 64(1).
- Additional convictions for causing grievous bodily harm, endangering lives, and committing dacoity against the victims.
The crimes carry severe penalties, including potential death sentences for murder and up to 20 years imprisonment for gang rape, highlighting the gravity of the offenses.
Background of the Attack and Its Impact
The horrific incident occurred on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site popular with backpackers, in March 2025. A group of five individuals, including two foreigners from Israel and the US, a woman guide from a local resort, and youths from Odisha and Maharashtra, were relaxing and stargazing at night when the three convicts chanced upon them. In a violent spree, the attackers pushed the male tourists into the canal, gang-raped the two women, and robbed the victims. Bhibash Kumar Nayak died in the assault, with his body discovered a day later in the canal.
This brutal attack created a significant shock wave, leading to a decline in foreign tourism in the region and prompting the Karnataka government to implement swift actions for a speedy trial and enhanced safety measures for tourists. According to Koppal Superintendent of Police Dr. Ram L Arasiddi, patrols have been increased, and Hampi is now deemed safe for visitors.
Court's Call for Reports Before Sentencing
In a critical step before sentencing, the court has called for comprehensive reports to assess the convicts' backgrounds and potential for reformation. This decision followed a submission by the Public Prosecutor, who argued that the case falls under the "rarest of rare" category due to the interconnected offenses of two gang rapes, two attempted murders with hurt, robbery by causing hurt, grievous bodily harm during rape, and robbery by attempt to cause death.
The reports requested include:
- A social investigation report covering family circumstances, economic condition, education, and community standing of the convicts.
- A jail conduct report detailing discipline, behavior, and attitude of the convicts during incarceration.
- A psychiatric and psychological report examining mental stability, emotional control, and scope for reformation.
These reports will play a pivotal role in determining whether the convicts face the maximum penalties, such as death or life imprisonment, or other sentences based on their profiles and the heinous nature of the crimes.
The conviction marks a significant milestone in a case that has drawn national and international attention, underscoring the importance of justice and safety in tourist destinations across India.
