Indian National Charged Over Alleged Mid-Air Sexual Assault on Singapore–Perth Flight
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An Indian national is being formally charged with committing a sexual crime on an overseas flight from Singapore to Perth, Australia.
This is an extremely rare crime that has caused concern among federal officials regarding passenger safety, particularly on long flights.
The accused, named as Sudhir Kumar Chauhan, aged 54, was detained immediately upon landing in Perth on Monday, April 13.
It is alleged by investigators that the man committed multiple offenses against a woman sitting next to him on the plane.
In this case, things happened quite fast as a court hearing took place just the next day.
In a court hearing held in Perth Magistrates Court yesterday, the judge remanded the accused in custody.
The charges against Sudhir Kumar Chauhan include rape and three counts of indecent assault.
A bail hearing has now been set for Friday, April 17, 2026.
Allegations and In-Flight Response
According to law enforcement, the alleged victim was seated beside the accused during the flight when the incident occurred.
Distressed, she reportedly alerted airline personnel, prompting immediate intervention by cabin crew.
“Airline staff monitored the man for the remainder of the flight and alerted the AFP,” police said.
The response by airline staff included relocating the woman to a different seat to ensure her safety and prevent further contact with the accused.
Cabin crew maintained vigilance over the accused passenger for the rest of the journey, ensuring that authorities were prepared to act upon landing.
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
Upon the aircraft’s arrival at Perth Airport, officers from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) boarded the plane.
“AFP officers met the plane on its arrival at Perth Airport and escorted the man from the aircraft for questioning,” the police statement added.
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The matter is now under joint investigation by federal and state authorities.
“The AFP and WA Police Sex Assault Squad are jointly investigating the alleged incident,” officials confirmed, indicating the seriousness with which the case is being handled.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the complainant, citing privacy and the sensitive nature of the allegations.
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A photo of a man in police handcuffs. PHOTO/ istock images
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