The Igatpuri police have detained nine individuals in connection with an attack on a family and the destruction of their vehicle near the Bhavli Dam waterfall area. One of the accused has a prior murder case against him, and the police are searching for one more person.
The incident occurred on Sunday (July 12, 2026) when a family from Nashik visited the location. Two men allegedly whistled at and harassed a woman from the group. The family objected, and the accused then became aggressive, joined by 8-10 others, including some who run food stalls nearby. The group abused the family and assaulted them.
A damaged car is seen two days after a woman tourist was allegedly molested and her family members were attacked by a group of assailants at Bhavali Dam. | Photo Credit: PTI
The family attempted to leave in their car but the accused blocked the vehicle and attacked it with sticks and iron rods. The family managed to drive off, and the accused chased them for nearly 20 kilometres. The chase ended on a road several kilometres from the initial spot.
The family reached the Ambad police station in Nashik city to file a complaint. The case was transferred to the Igatpuri police station. The police have applied sections related to attempted murder, robbery, and outraging modesty.
The victim stated that two persons called out her name and started harassing her. She scolded them, and her husband confronted them. The family tried to walk away, but the group continued to abuse them. Children were present in the car during the attack and remain frightened.
Nashik Rural Superintendent of Police Dr. D. S. Swami briefed the media on the investigation. He stated that the police used technical analysis and video footage to track the accused. The detained individuals are residents of villages near Igatpuri and are known to each other. The police have also included those who assisted the accused or helped them escape in the case.
Nashik (Rural) SP Dhondopant Swami addresses a media conference in Nashik on July 14, 2026. | Photo Credit: ANI
Dr. Swami added that a police post exists near the location of the initial argument. A police vehicle from the 112 control room contacted the complainants, but the family had already moved ahead. The family later filed the complaint at the Ambad police station.
Published - July 15, 2026 09:32 am IST