URGENT UPDATE: A man has been fined £300 after being convicted of assaulting three women in the Comber Greenway area. Hemanth Podilapu, aged 32, was arrested on November 23, 2024, following a warrant issued for his failure to appear in court earlier that month.
Podilapu faced multiple charges, including five counts of common assault against five different women stemming from incidents that occurred in August 2024. During a court appearance on November 24, he pleaded not guilty to all charges but was convicted of three. For each assault, he received a fine of £100, totaling £300.
A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed the arrest: “District Support Team Officers in Belfast apprehended a 32-year-old man in the north of the city today, Sunday 23rd November, in relation to an outstanding bench warrant.”
This case highlights significant concerns about public safety in the area, as the assaults have raised alarm among local residents. With rising awareness of women’s safety, this conviction serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles many face.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have experienced similar incidents to come forward. The PSNI remains committed to ensuring community safety and addressing such offenses with urgency.
As more details emerge about this case and its implications, community members are encouraged to stay informed and vigilant. For updates, follow local news outlets and engage with local safety initiatives.
