Sanapur near Hampi: A daytime paradise, a night-time crime hub

Gangavathi (Koppal): Sanapur village, nestled among the rugged hills along Tungabhadra river, has long attracted tourists seeking serenity and adventure near Hampi. However, beneath its breathtaking scenery lies a darker reality of crime and illicit activities, troubling both visitors and locals.
Located 25km from Hampi, about 350km from Bengaluru, the lake's scenic beauty draws visitors from different parts of the country and international destinations, including the US, Europe, and the Middle East. Many come for music, meditation, and relaxation, often reaching the area on rented two-wheelers due to poor road conditions.
Yet, Sanapur's isolation has turned it into a hotspot for criminal elements. A police officer, who worked in the district previously, said, "This area is frequented by anti-social elements, petty criminals, gamblers, and drug users who often target individuals alone or in small groups. Many incidents are either no reported or only came to light after significant delays. But the recent rape cases have been shocking."
Authorities struggle to maintain security due to limited police presence and the vast, isolated terrain. Poor infrastructure, including unsafe accommodations and inadequate roads, adds to the concerns. The area remains uninhabited, and after nightfall, total darkness makes it a haven for criminal activity.
Gangavathi Rural police, under whose jurisdiction Sanapur falls, acknowledge the risks and blame it largely on drugs. "Tourists searching for drugs become vulnerable to robbery. Locals lure them in with promises of exotic substances and adventure spots," a police official said. Records indicate over 50 drug-related cases annually and at least seven to eight suicides, some later are identified as homicides.
A chilling detail shared by resident Hanumanthappa Kuri underscores the severity. "Many cases go unreported or are dismissed as suicides. By the time authorities arrive, crocodiles in Tungabhadra river often consume the remains," he said.
The situation is worsened by reports of secret rave parties organized by some homestay operators. "Outsiders running homestays take tourists to the lake at midnight for parties. Cases of extortion have been reported earlier, but Friday's incident was horrific," alleged a local resident.
Despite the rising threats, the govt has done little to ensure tourist safety, especially for foreign visitors. "The recent violent episode involving foreign tourists and a homestay operator highlights the urgent need for intervention. Stricter regulations are necessary, or it will impact the already declining tourist inflow," said a tour operator in Hampi.
Local tour guides fear the fallout on tourism. "Friday's incident is a black mark and may discourage visitors from coming to Hampi," one guide lamented. Activists have urged authorities to crack down on illegal activities, penalize violators, and increase police patrolling.
Despite repeated demands for a permanent police outpost at Sanapur, officials cite staff shortages as a roadblock. However, locals insist that without stronger enforcement, Sanapur will remain both a dream destination and a dangerous nightmare.
"We are planning to station a patrol vehicle in Sanapur to check potential criminal activities. We will hold meetings with homestay owners, advising them to ensure safety of tourists and keep an eye on them when they move out of homestays. Additionally, I have instructed the Gangavathi police officers to increase their presence around the lake."
Ram L Arasiddi | Koppal superintendent of police
"The incident in Sanapur has brought to light the urgent need for improved security at prominent tourist attractions in the district. We have already devised a strategy to strengthen security and enhance amenities for tourists in this area. A draft tourism policy for Koppal district is in the works, and will consider these issues. Hotel and homestay operators will be firmly instructed to ensure comprehensive security for their guests. I will take necessary action to devise an effective plan to avert such incidents in future."
Nalin Atul, Deputy Commissioner, Koppal