Ashleigh Gardner Escorted by Police in Mumbai After Shocking Molestation Case in Indore
After the Indore molestation case, Australia’s Ashleigh Gardner was escorted by police to a Mumbai cafe.
Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner and her partner Monica were seen escorted by police to a cafe in Mumbai on Monday, just days after the shocking molestation incident in Indore involving two members of the Australian women’s cricket team.
Last week, the cricket world was stunned when two Australian players were allegedly “touched inappropriately” by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe near their hotel in Indore. The police acted swiftly, recording witness statements and arresting the accused soon after.
On Monday, Gardner’s partner Monica shared a photo on Instagram showing the couple in a car, with two policemen on a bike following them closely, a clear sign of tightened security around the Australian camp.
Following the Indore incident, authorities have ramped up protection for the Australian team in Navi Mumbai, where they are set to face India in the Women’s World Cup semi-final on October 30.
According to a India Today report, extra guards have been deployed around the team’s hotel and training facilities.
“Since October 18, when practice began, we have had guards stationed at all hotels where the players are staying. Escorts accompany the teams during travel between the stadium and hotel,” a senior Maharashtra Police officer told India Today.
He added that around 600 personnel, including 75 officers, are currently on duty in and around the venue. Players have also been asked to inform security before leaving their hotel premises.
“If they tell us in advance, we ensure full protection. Problems arise only when players step out without informing the police,” the officer said.
The Indore incident occurred last Thursday on Khajrana Road when two Australian cricketers were heading to a cafe from the Radisson Blu Hotel.
One player was reportedly stalked while the other was touched inappropriately. Both immediately reported the matter to their liaison officer, and the suspect, identified as Aqeel Khan, was arrested soon after.
