A 20-year-old student narrowly escaped a rape attempt by sharing her location with a friend, leading to timely intervention. The incident took place under Nandanvan police station limits, where the accused, Swapnil Shyam Lakshane (24), a salon owner from Pardi, allegedly intoxicated the victim with alcohol before attempting to assault her.
According to the police, Swapnil was acquainted with one of the victim’s relatives. A few days ago, he invited her to a roadside eatery, assuring her that the relative would also be present. Before leaving, she informed her cousin about the plan but told her family she was attending a college event.
At the eatery, Swapnil was already there with two friends. When she asked about her relative, he reassured her that he would arrive soon and ordered food and beer. The relative and her cousin arrived later but left after some time.
By evening, when the victim tried to leave, Swapnil insisted she was unfit to drive and offered to drop her home. Instead, he took her to a hotel in Hasanbagh, where he behaved inappropriately and tried to force himself on her.
Sensing danger, she pushed him away, locked herself in the bathroom, and called a friend, sharing her live location. The friend, who was nearby, rushed to the hotel and rescued her.
After reaching home, the victim informed her family, and a molestation case was registered against Swapnil. Police have assured strict action and advised young women to stay cautious and share their whereabouts with trusted individuals.