Woman drugged and gang-raped in Odisha; two suspects detained, third at large

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A showroom employee was allegedly drugged, dragged and gang-raped by three masked men while returning home from work in Subarnapur district in Odisha on Thursday, police said. Authorities said two suspects have been detained in connection with the case and a search is on for the third accused.

According to the survivor’s complaint, the suspects sprayed a substance on her face, causing her to lose consciousness. As she began to lose her senses, the accused dragged her on the road and then gang-raped her, Biramaharajpur Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Hemant Rao told reporters, as per a report by India Today.

Wearing masks to hide their identities, the attackers could not be identified by the woman initially. Police detained two suspects on Friday morning and are conducting a manhunt to apprehend the third accused, the SDPO added.

India Today said that the survivor regained consciousness the following morning and went to the Biramaharajpur police station to file the complaint, initiating a formal inquiry under the station’s jurisdiction.

The incident has sparked outrage locally and raised fears about women’s safety in the area. SDPO Hemant Rao said, "The suspects used an incapacitating spray to drug the woman. They took advantage of her condition and committed the heinous act. Police are gathering all necessary evidence and ensuring that justice is served. The woman is currently receiving comprehensive medical care and counselling support."

He also noted, "As per the complaint, the woman was returning from her office. We have launched an inquiry based on her complaint and detained two suspects."

A full investigation is underway, police have said, according to reports.