Police in Pune's Wanowrie area have launched a manhunt for an autorickshaw driver and his two female accomplices following a brutal assault on a minibus driver. The incident, which left the bus driver injured, occurred near the Racecourse on Wednesday evening amid traffic congestion.
Traffic Altercation Turns Violent
The victim, identified as Sachin Ingle (40), a resident of Phursungi, was ferrying employees of a private company from Chakan to Hadapsar. Around 5 pm on Wednesday, his minibus was stuck in a traffic snarl near the Racecourse while heading towards Hadapsar.
According to police, an autorickshaw driver attempted to overtake from the wrong side despite the halted traffic. In the process, the three-wheeler brushed against the bus. Instead of apologizing, the auto driver parked his vehicle in front of the bus and began abusing Ingle.
Iron Rod Assault in Broad Daylight
The situation escalated rapidly. The autorickshaw driver opened the door of the minibus and started beating Ingle. Two women who were passengers in the autorickshaw also boarded the bus and held the driver, preventing him from defending himself or escaping.
The officer detailed the sequence: "The auto driver then returned to his vehicle, fetched an iron rod, and used it to strike the victim on his right leg and face." After the attack, the trio fled the scene, leaving Ingle injured.
Police Case Registered Under New BNS
Sachin Ingle approached the Wanowrie police station on Thursday and filed a formal complaint. Based on his statement, the police have registered a case under sections 115 and 118 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections pertain to voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means.
An investigating officer confirmed that they have a crucial lead: "We have the registration number of the autorickshaw involved in the incident." The search for the accused driver and the two women is currently underway.
The attack highlights growing concerns over road rage and public safety in the city. The police are urging any witnesses to come forward to aid in the investigation.
