A shocking case of alleged sexual assault near a major railway station in Kerala’s Kochi city has triggered public concern after police arrested two men accused of attacking a woman at knifepoint. Authorities said the incident took place near Ernakulam Junction Railway Station late at night, prompting an intensive police investigation and a search for another suspect believed to be involved in the crime.

According to police officials, the woman was with a male friend near a closed hotel in the railway station area on the night of May 5 when the accused allegedly approached them. Investigators said the group assaulted the woman’s companion before threatening the victim with a knife and allegedly sexually assaulting her. The accused were also alleged to have disrobed the woman during the attack.

Police identified the two arrested men as Danish, a resident of Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district, and Rahul, a native of Paravoor in Kollam district. Officials stated that efforts are underway to trace and arrest the third accused, identified as Sanjay from Alappuzha district, who is believed to be the prime suspect in the case.

Investigators revealed that the woman managed to escape from the location despite the alleged threats and assault. She reportedly sought help from a nearby shop soon after the incident. Police were alerted immediately and the survivor was taken to the police station, where officials initiated legal procedures and medical assistance.

Sources in the investigation said officers faced initial challenges due to limited surveillance footage in the area. However, police teams reportedly tracked the accused through technical evidence and local intelligence inputs. One of the accused allegedly attempted to flee during the police operation but was later apprehended.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns over women’s safety in public areas, especially around transportation hubs and deserted urban spaces during late-night hours. The case has also intensified discussions regarding the need for stronger police patrolling, improved surveillance infrastructure, and quicker emergency response systems in crowded city zones.

Police officials said the accused have been produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody while further investigation continues. Authorities are also examining whether the suspects were involved in previous criminal activities.