In a horrifying incident, a family traveling late at night in Greater Noida was terrorized by four men in a BMW. The entire ordeal, captured on the victim’s car’s dashcam footage, has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage and raising concerns about road safety in India.
The Incident:
The video shows a seemingly ordinary car ride that takes a terrifying turn. The date stamp on the footage indicates the incident occurred around 1.15 am on May 2nd, 2024. The video starts with the family’s car, most likely a Maruti Baleno, driving on a deserted road. Suddenly, a speeding grey BMW appears, recklessly overtaking the car from the wrong side with its high beams on. There’s a minor brush between the vehicles, but thankfully, the driver of the Baleno avoids confrontation and continues driving. However, the situation escalates quickly. The BMW cuts them off and begins tailing the car.
Panic and Escape:
The video captures the rising panic within the car. Voices can be heard calling the local police station, presumably the Station House Officer (SHO). The family, reportedly on their way to a hospital, desperately tries to escape the pursuers. The BMW continues its aggressive maneuvers, attempting to block their path. The video then shows the BMW stopping abruptly, and four men emerge from the car. Fearing for their safety, the Baleno driver makes a quick decision and reverses the car at high speed, escaping the scene.
Police Action and Aftermath:
The viral video brought the incident to the attention of the Noida Police. Although the family reportedly hesitated to press charges, the police took suo motu (on their own initiative) cognizance of the case. An FIR (First Information Report) was registered against the accused under IPC sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 279 (rash driving). Based on the video evidence and CCTV footage, three of the men involved in the incident – Sanket Bhati, Vipin Malik, and Arun – were arrested on May 6th, 2024.
Importance of Dashcams and Road Safety:
This incident highlights the importance of having a dashcam installed in your car. In this case, the dash cam footage served as crucial evidence, aiding the police investigation and leading to the arrest of the perpetrators.
Road rage is a serious issue in India, often leading to violence and fatalities. It’s crucial for drivers to stay calm and avoid confrontation in such situations. If you find yourself in a similar situation, prioritize your safety and that of your passengers. Try to get the license plate number of the other vehicle and dial the police emergency number (100) immediately.
Here are some additional tips for staying safe on the road:
- Avoid late-night travel: If possible, avoid driving alone or with family at night, especially on deserted roads.
- Maintain a safe distance: Always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, especially those driving erratically.
- Don’t engage: Avoid eye contact or gestures that could provoke aggressive drivers.
- Report suspicious behavior: If you witness road rage or any other suspicious activity, report it to the police immediately.
By following these simple tips and remaining vigilant, we can all contribute to a safer driving environment.