Women Australian Cricketers’ Molester, Repeat Offender with Over 10 Criminal Charges, Including Attempted Murd

A 29-year-old man arrested for allegedly assaulting two Australian women cricketers in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is a habitual offender with an extensive criminal record.

Aqeel, also known as Nitra, has over 10 cases registered against him, including charges of molestation, robbery, assault, and attempted murder. He was recently released from Bhairavgarh jail after completing a 10-year sentence.

Long Criminal History of Aqeel Nitra

Some of Aqeel's cases date back to 2012. Apart from charges under the Indian Penal Code, he has also faced cases under the Arms Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Professionally, he worked as a painter, while his parents are labourers.

Assault on Australian Cricketers

Around 11 am on Thursday, two members of the Australian women's cricket team, in Indore for a World Cup match, were walking toward a cafe near their hotel when the incident occurred.

According to a police complaint filed by Danny Simmons, the team's security in-charge, "Aqeel approached the cricketers on his bike, tried to grab one of them, then sped off. He returned moments later and groped the other cricketer before fleeing." Terrified by the assault, the players immediately sent an SOS to their security head.

Police Chase and Arrest

The Indore Police acted swiftly. Officers from five police stations, under the Indore Police Commissionerate, reviewed CCTV footage and tracked Aqeel. During the pursuit through narrow lanes, Aqeel lost control of his bike and crashed, suffering fractures in his left hand and right leg. He is now in custody and faces new charges under stalking and assault laws.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya stated, "Aqeel has a criminal history. He has been jailed several times and committed new offences while out on bail or parole." A year ago, he allegedly attacked a young couple with a knife and attempted to molest the woman. In another incident, he allegedly snatched rifles from police officers in Ujjain and tried to open fire. Recently, he returned to Indore after serving his jail term.

Political and Public Reaction

The shocking crime against Australian cricketers during the Women's Cricket World Cup has caused widespread concern. Madhya Pradesh Sports Minister Vishwas Sarang called the incident "deeply shameful" and promised strict action. He said, "The administration acted immediately. The action will be exemplary."