A Spanish tourist was assaulted and subjected to a sexual assault involving multiple perpetrators in a northern region of India where she was vacationing with her husband, authorities told EFE on Saturday.
The woman, of Brazilian origin with Spanish citizenship, and her husband, who is also Spanish, were traveling as part of a bicycle tour, diplomatic sources confirmed to EFE.
According to the authorities, the couple had pitched a tent in the Dumka district, a remote area in the state of Jharkhand, for overnight accommodation on Friday when an unknown number of men attacked them as they slept.
Sources consulted by EFE indicated that the woman is receiving medical care at a local hospital.
A police report for robbery and gang assault has been filed by local officers. Three individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the incident, police sources who spoke to EFE on condition of anonymity said.
“The incident is condemnable, and the police are taking appropriate measures. The alleged perpetrators will not evade accountability,” stated Mithilesh Kumar Thakur, Jharkhand’s regional minister, to reporters.
The Spanish embassy in India has contacted local authorities and deployed staff to the region to assist with the case.
According to several sources consulted by EFE, the couple had traveled from Spain to undertake a route that began in Pakistan and continued through Bangladesh, India, and finally Nepal.
The authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, reviewing security arrangements in remote travel areas and coordinating with international counterparts to ensure comprehensive support for the victims. Local officials emphasized that the safety and well-being of travelers remain a priority and that law enforcement agencies will pursue those responsible with diligence.