In a shocking daylight robbery, three individuals were arrested for attacking a collection agent on Mint Street in Sowcarpet. Among those arrested was a law student. This incident has raised significant concerns about street safety in the area. Local police have reacted quickly and have initiated a manhunt for the main suspect, who is still at large.
Details About the Victim
The victim of this robbery is Hari Prasad. He has only been working as a collection agent for ten days. Hari worked at a local medicine shop situated on Govindappa Street in Sowcarpet. Despite the alarming nature of the attack, he was hesitant to file a police report. He feared the consequences of involving law enforcement. Additionally, he mentioned that his bag contained no valuable items, which discouraged him from reporting the crime.
CCTV Footage Goes Viral
Soon after the robbery, CCTV footage emerged online, gaining widespread attention. The video captured the event as it unfolded in broad daylight. A security camera on Mint Street recorded the armed robbery. The footage showed five individuals on two motorcycles. One suspect, a lone rider, attempted to slash Hari’s leather bag. He threatened Hari with a knife, which led to a chaotic scuffle.
The Nature of the Robbery
Reports indicate that the robbery was not random. The suspects had likely targeted Hari Prasad because they knew he was carrying a substantial amount of money. The robbery was carefully planned. It occurred during a busy time on the street, which allowed the suspects to act without attracting too much attention. The surveillance footage shows the two motorcycles approaching Hari suspiciously.
As he walked along the street, one of the assailants confronted him. Armed with a large knife, he threatened Hari and attempted to cut the leather bag from him. Despite the threatening situation, Hari managed to keep hold of his bag. However, the robbers were persistent. A brief struggle ensued, with Hari trying to defend himself.
Police Investigation Progress
Initially, progress was slow for the Flower Bazaar police in solving this case. The motorcycles used in the robbery were found without visible registration plates. This detail made it difficult for the police to track the culprits. However, after a thorough review of the CCTV footage, the authorities managed to identify the suspects.
The police discovered that Hari Prasad had just started his job as a collection agent. His role involved collecting money from customers, which made him an appealing target. While his bag contained no actual valuables, the suspects likely saw him as an easy mark.
Identifying the Suspects
Further inspection of the CCTV footage revealed that multiple individuals were involved in the robbery. Some appeared to be young offenders. Notably, one suspect was recognized as a law student. This added an unexpected layer to the case as it raised questions about how someone with legal education could engage in criminal activity.
The police managed to arrest three individuals connected to the crime. However, the main suspect who wielded the knife remains at large. Authorities have intensified their search for this individual, focusing on areas near Mint Street and Sowcarpet.
Community Reaction
The robbery has sparked considerable concern within the community. Residents and business owners in Sowcarpet are now expressing anxieties about their safety. This incident has brought attention to the increasing number of street crimes in Chennai, especially in busy commercial districts.
Local shopkeepers and traders have voiced dissatisfaction with police patrols, particularly during peak hours. Some residents suggest that more CCTV cameras and better street lighting could help deter future crimes.
While Hari Prasad initially hesitated to pursue charges due to fear of retaliation, the viral spread of the CCTV footage prompted authorities to act. Social media has become a powerful tool for exposing street crimes. Many community members are urging the police to enhance surveillance efforts and enforce stricter laws.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The police have assured the public that they will continue their investigation diligently. They are committed to bringing the main suspect to justice. Meanwhile, the arrest of the three individuals has led to mixed reactions in the community. Some residents feel relieved that action has been taken. Others are calling for harsher penalties for those involved in such crimes, especially given that weapons were used.
Hari Prasad has declined to make public comments about the incident. He prefers to focus on recovering from the ordeal. It remains uncertain whether he will cooperate with law enforcement in pursuing charges against the suspects.
