Bhubaneswar: The Gopalpur police have arrested all 10 suspects involved in the gang rape of a college student at Gopalpur beach on Sunday, Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M. said on Tuesday.
He stated that while seven youths were arrested on Monday, three more were apprehended on Tuesday during raids as they attempted to flee the state.
The horrific incident occurred on Sunday evening when a group of youths allegedly molested the victim, who had visited the beach with her boyfriend to celebrate the Raja festival.
According to the FIR filed by the victim girl, 10 men approached them at the beach and took their photographs, threatening to make them viral on social media.
When the victim’s boyfriend opposed their actions, the group assaulted him, tied him up, and took the girl to a secluded area where they allegedly raped her.
Based on the FIR, the police arrested seven youths hailing from Hinjilicut area in Ganjam district on Monday. Following interrogation, three more accused were arrested on Tuesday.
The Berhampur SP said a special investigation team has been formed to expedite the probe and ensure that justice is delivered swiftly. The police have also visited the crime scene to gather further evidence.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage across the state. Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida expressed her sorrow and ordered a thorough investigation.
In a post on X, Deputy CM Parida said she was deeply saddened by the gang rape of a young woman at Gopalpur beach.
She confirmed that 10 accused have been arrested so far and mentioned that she had spoken to the SP, instructing him to conduct a thorough investigation and take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Former Chief Minister and leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also strongly condemned the incident, calling it shocking and deeply disturbing.
He said the incident had shaken everyone and raised serious concerns about the safety of women in Odisha, especially in key tourist locations.
Patnaik urged the state government to take strong measures to ensure the security and safety of women across the state.
