Hulimavu police arrest bike mechanic Abdul Shoaib while hunt continues for two more accused
Bengaluru: Hulimavu police have arrested the prime accused in the shocking attack on a Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus driver after a viral video of the incident triggered massive public outrage across Bengaluru.
The arrested accused has been identified as 26-year-old Abdul Shoaib, a bike mechanic, who had allegedly assaulted the BMTC driver along with two associates on Bannerghatta Main Road. Police tracked him down using technical evidence after he went absconding following the circulation of the attack video on social media.
The disturbing incident, which occurred in broad daylight, raised serious concerns regarding road rage violence and public transport staff safety in Bengaluru.
BMTC Driver Attacked on Bannerghatta Road After Overtaking Dispute
According to police officials, the incident took place on May 12 at around 2:30 pm when a BMTC bus travelling from Banashankari towards Bannerghatta was intercepted near Gottigere by three men riding a motorcycle.
Investigators said the accused stopped the bus and allegedly picked up a fight with the driver following an overtaking-related dispute on the busy road.
The attackers reportedly abused the driver using obscene language, threatened him with deadly weapons including spanners, and later entered the bus before physically assaulting him in front of passengers and commuters.
The violent visuals captured during the incident quickly went viral online, sparking outrage among citizens and demands for immediate action against the accused.
Hulimavu Police Register Suo Motu Case After Viral Video
Following the widespread circulation of the video on social media platforms, Hulimavu police registered a suo motu case and launched an intensive investigation into the attack.
Considering the seriousness of the case, police formed three special teams to identify and trace the accused persons involved in the assault.
Authorities said Abdul Shoaib was finally arrested near Tipu Circle in Bilvaradahalli on May 17 after sustained surveillance and technical tracking operations.
Police also seized the motorcycle allegedly used during the crime along with the spanner believed to have been used in the attack.
“The accused confessed during interrogation that he and his associates assaulted the BMTC bus driver during the road altercation,” police sources said.
Search Continues for Two Absconding Accused
Police confirmed that Abdul Shoaib was produced before the court on May 18 and has been remanded to judicial custody.
Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched to arrest the remaining two accused, who are currently at large. Investigators are continuing raids and technical tracking operations to trace them.
Transport workers and commuters have demanded stricter legal action against individuals who attack public service employees, warning that such incidents instil fear among drivers and compromise passenger safety.
