Serial Offender Arrested for Molesting Australian Cricketers in Indore: A History of Crime

The 29-year-old individual arrested for allegedly molesting two Australian women cricketers in Indore, Madhya Pradesh has been identified as a habitual offender with an extensive criminal record. Aqeel, also known as Nitra, has accumulated at least 10 criminal cases against him, with charges including molestation, robbery, assault, and attempted murder. He was recently released from Bhairavgarh jail after serving a 10-year sentence.

Aqeel's criminal history dates back to 2012. He has faced charges under the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in various cases. He earned his living as a painter, and both his parents work as laborers.

The incident occurred around 11 am on Thursday when two members of the Australian women's cricket team, who were in Indore for a World Cup match, were walking towards a cafe near their hotel. According to the police complaint filed by Danny Simmons, the Australian team's security head, Aqeel approached the cricketers on his motorcycle, attempted to grab one of them before speeding away. He returned shortly after and groped the other cricketer before fleeing. Terrified by the assault, the players immediately alerted their security team.

Local authorities responded promptly, with the Indore Police Commissionerate launching an operation involving officers from five police stations. After reviewing CCTV footage from the area, police identified Aqeel. As officers closed in on him, Aqeel attempted to escape through narrow lanes but lost control of his motorcycle and crashed. He sustained fractures to his left hand and right leg and is now in custody. The repeat offender now faces fresh charges of stalking and assaulting women.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya confirmed Aqeel's criminal background, noting that he has been imprisoned multiple times and has committed new offenses while out on bail or parole. According to police sources, approximately one year ago, Aqeel allegedly attacked a young couple with a knife and attempted to molest the woman. In another incident, he allegedly snatched rifles from officers in Ujjain and tried to open fire. Police stated that he had recently returned to Indore after serving time in jail.

India is co-hosting this year's women's cricket World Cup, and this shocking crime against Australian cricketers in Indore represents a significant embarrassment. Madhya Pradesh Sports Minister Vishwas Sarang described the incident as "deeply shameful" and assured that the strictest punishment would be administered. "The administration acted immediately. The action will be exemplary."