Earlier this week, an Air India flight attendant was reportedly attacked by an intruder in a London hotel. The incident occurred late on Thursday evening (15 August) at the Radisson Red Hotel near Heathrow Airport, where the flight attendant was staying.
The attacker was arrested on the spot and handed over to local authorities. The injured crew member received immediate medical attention and was later taken to a hospital.
She has since been released and is on her way back to Mumbai, The Hindu reported.
Indian citizen attacked in London hotel: What happened?
According to an unidentified source cited by the Times of India, the attack occurred shortly after midnight, at around 1:30 a.m. local time.
According to reports, the crew member was sleeping in her room when she was suddenly confronted by the intruder.
“She woke up in shock and screamed for help,” the source said. “The attacker attacked her with a coat hanger and dragged her across the floor as she tried to get to the door.”
The crew member suffered significant bruising in the ordeal. The source added that the intruder attempted to flee the scene but was eventually caught by police. Due to her injuries, she was unable to continue her scheduled flight duties and a crew member stayed with her for support.
Even before the incident, Air India employees had expressed concerns about security at the hotel.
According to The Hindu, crew members had complained about inadequate security measures, including poorly lit corridors, an unmanned reception area and incidents of unknown persons knocking on their doors.
Also watch: Why an Air India passenger was arrested after refusing food and drinks during the flight
An Air India spokesman confirmed the attack and said the airline was providing comprehensive support, including professional counseling, to the affected crew member.
“We are deeply shocked by the unlawful break-in at a hotel belonging to a major international chain, which affected one of our crew members. We are providing all possible support, including professional counselling, to our colleague and his team. Air India is also working with the local police to pursue the matter to the fullest extent of the law and with the hotel management to ensure that such incidents are not repeated,” the spokesperson said, according to the Times of India.
(With contributions from agencies)
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