Coimbatore Airport Horror: 19-Year-Old Student Gang-Assaulted, Friend Attacked with Machete

A 19-year-old college student was allegedly gang-assaulted near Coimbatore airport on Saturday night after three intoxicated men attacked her and her male friend, leaving him seriously injured with 28 stitches. The incident occurred in Brindavan Nagar, a residential area falling within the high-security airport zone, sending shock waves across the city.

Incident Details

According to police, the young woman - a native of Madurai pursuing studies in Coimbatore - was conversing with her friend inside a car when the three men approached them under the influence of alcohol. The assailants smashed the car window, confronted the male student, and attacked him with a machete. He suffered deep injuries and lost consciousness.

Taking advantage of the situation, the attackers abducted the woman and allegedly assaulted her in a nearby forested area. After regaining consciousness, the male victim alerted the Peelamedu police, who launched a search and rescued the woman. Both victims were rushed to hospitals for treatment - the woman to a private hospital and the male student to a government facility.

Police Action and Investigation

Coimbatore Police Commissioner confirmed that seven special teams have been formed to track down the suspects. CCTV footage from the vicinity and nearby roads is being scrutinised, and forensic experts have lifted fingerprints from discarded liquor bottles and other evidence found near the crime scene.

The attack's proximity to a high-security area has raised serious questions about night patrolling and public safety. Senior officers have been instructed to expedite the investigation and ensure the culprits are nabbed swiftly.

Political Outrage and Reactions

The horrific assault has sparked widespread outrage and political backlash. AIADMK and BJP leaders slammed the DMK government, alleging a breakdown of law and order in Tamil Nadu.

Former Minister S.P. Velumani said the attack reflects "administrative collapse" and demanded stronger policing. BJP state president K. Annamalai accused the ruling DMK of "shielding offenders instead of ensuring justice," adding that "anti-social elements no longer fear the law." BJP's women's wing, led by Vanathi Srinivasan, announced protests in Coimbatore demanding swift arrests and better protection for women.

Residents and student groups expressed fear and frustration over repeated incidents of violence near the airport stretch and other isolated parts of Coimbatore. Civil society groups have urged police to intensify night patrols, install better lighting, and deploy more surveillance cameras in vulnerable zones.

The Peelamedu police are continuing investigations, while the victims remain under medical observation. Officials have assured that those responsible for the heinous crime will be brought to justice soon.