Women’s World Cup 2025: Indore man arrested for stalking, molesting two Australian women cricketers a day after clash with England

A disturbing incident has occurred amid the ongoing Women’s World Cup 2025, highlighting women’s safety concerns in Indore. Madhya Pradesh Police apprehended 28-year-old Aqeel Khan, a resident of Azad Nagar, for allegedly molesting two women cricketers of the Australian team in Indore, who were lodging in a reputed hotel for the eight-team global event.

According to police officials, “The incident occurred at around 11 am on Thursday when the two players were en route to a cafe situated approximately half a kilometer away from the hotel.”

The players initiated an SOS alert- The duo contacted their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security liaison officers and sent a vehicle for assistance. The Australian team’s security manager also filed a complaint at the MIG police station.

Upon receiving the information, senior police officials met the two cricketers, recorded their statements, and registered a First Information Report under Section 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and Section 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the MIG police station.

A police official mentioned that a bystander noted the suspect’s motorcycle number, based on which the accused, Aqeel Khan, was detained. The arrest was made in the late hours of Friday, October 24.

Police officials said that Aqeel, riding a black motorcycle, went near the players, slowed his vehicle, and inappropriately touched them before speeding away.

“The suspect’s motorcycle aligned precisely with the eyewitness description and number plate,” police said- Yet, the rapid arrest belies deeper systemic flaws. Police insiders have conceded an ‘Intelligence lapse’ in the operation. 

Given the marquee sporting event and the vulnerability of female cricketers, “insufficient security measures were in place around the hotel vicinity”, they said on Saturday.

The accused, Aqeel, worked as a local delivery executive. His vehicle was seized. Incidentally, no routine patrols or undercover personnel were deployed to the brief pathway to the cafe, something which is usual during team outings.

“Khan has prior criminal cases registered against him, and an investigation is ongoing,” police added.

Meanwhile, the Australian team maintained their unbeaten streak in the Women’s World Cup 2025, as they defeated South Africa by seven wickets on Sunday at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. The Tahlia McGrath-led side chased down a 98-run target in 16.5 overs. Alana King was the pick of the bowlers, picking up a seven-for.