Hyderabad, 21 July
Drunk Man Flees With RTC Bus in Jagtial, Hits Four People During 10-km Chase
Drunk man flees with RTC bus in Jagtial after allegedly driving away with a Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) bus from the Korutla bus stand on Tuesday, July 21. The accused reportedly drove the bus recklessly through the town, injuring four people and damaging a police vehicle before being arrested following a 10-kilometre chase.
Police identified the accused as Sambaiah, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
Drunk Man Flees With RTC Bus in Jagtial After Being Denied Job
According to police, the drunk man flees with RTC bus in Jagtial after visiting the Korutla bus depot seeking employment.
Officials said Sambaiah had approached the depot in search of a job. After his request was reportedly rejected, he climbed into a parked RTC bus and drove away.
Police stated that the bus driver and conductor had briefly gone to meet the depot controller, leaving the keys in the ignition. Taking advantage of the unattended vehicle, the accused allegedly started the bus and sped away from the depot.
Four People Injured During Reckless Drive
As the drunk man flees with RTC bus in Jagtial, he allegedly drove at high speed through busy streets, putting pedestrians and motorists at risk.
During the reckless drive, the bus hit four people, leaving two of them with serious injuries.
According to police:
- One victim sustained a fracture.
- Another suffered a head injury.
- Two others sustained minor injuries.
Authorities confirmed that all the injured persons received medical attention.
Police Vehicle Damaged During Chase
Police teams immediately launched a pursuit after receiving information about the stolen RTC bus.
During the chase, the accused allegedly rammed a police vehicle, causing damage before continuing to flee.
Officers from Metpalli Police joined the operation and pursued the bus for nearly 10 kilometres.
The chase finally came to an end near the Gandi Hanuman Checkpost, where police successfully intercepted and stopped the vehicle.
Accused Arrested and Handed Over to Korutla Police
Following his arrest, Sambaiah was taken into custody and handed over to Korutla Police for further investigation.
Police officials said the accused appeared to be intoxicated during the incident and is currently being interrogated to determine the exact sequence of events.
Authorities are also examining whether he acted alone and whether additional charges may be applicable based on the investigation.
Multiple Charges Filed Against Accused
Police have booked Sambaiah under several sections of the law.
The charges include:
- Attempt to murder
- Theft
- Damaging public property
Officials confirmed that the accused remains in police custody and will be produced before a local court on Wednesday for judicial remand.
Police Urge Better Safety Measures
The incident has raised concerns about vehicle security at public transport depots. Preliminary information suggests that the bus was left unattended with its keys in the ignition while the driver and conductor briefly stepped away.
Police are expected to examine whether additional safety protocols need to be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The drunk man flees with RTC bus in Jagtial incident caused panic among residents, disrupted traffic, and resulted in injuries to innocent people. Authorities have assured that a detailed investigation is underway and appropriate legal action will be taken against the accused.