Two members of the Australian women’s cricket team, currently participating in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, were allegedly stalked and molested in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on October 23, 2025.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. while the players were walking from their hotel to a nearby café.
According to Additional DCP Crime Branch Rajesh Dandotiya, the team’s security officers filed a formal complaint after reporting inappropriate behavior toward the players. Police registered an FIR and launched an intensive strategic operation to identify and apprehend the accused.
Authorities arrested Aqueel, a resident of Azadnagar, who allegedly followed the cricketers on a motorcycle and touched one of them inappropriately before fleeing the scene. He has been charged under sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Officials confirmed that the accused has a prior criminal record.
The incident occurred just two days before Australia’s crucial World Cup clash against South Africa. Sub-Inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi stated that the players immediately informed their team security officer, who coordinated with local liaison officers to escalate the matter.
Police are now reviewing security arrangements for international teams and examining whether any lapses contributed to the incident. The shocking event has sparked outrage and raised concerns over the safety of visiting athletes.
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