A seemingly minor traffic altercation between two motorcycles in Ahmedabad spiraled into a violent incident of rioting and assault in the early hours of the New Year, leading to injuries and property damage, according to police reports.
From Verbal Spat to Violent Attack
The incident unfolded around 12:30 am on January 1 on the busy Sarkhej–Makarba road near Sangam Cinema. The complainant, a local resident who works as a commercial vehicle driver, was riding pillion on a motorcycle with his cousin after refueling at a petrol pump in Sarkhej.
As they took a U-turn, another motorcycle carrying two youths came dangerously close to their vehicle. The complainant alleged that the rider of the other bike then began tailgating them aggressively. This prompted his cousin to object to the reckless driving, leading to a brief war of words. Both parties initially went their separate ways, believing the matter was over.
Mob Assault and Vandalism
The situation took a dangerous turn minutes later. While the complainant and his cousin were sitting in a nearby lane, the same two youths allegedly returned, hurling abuses and issuing death threats. Before the duo could react, several more individuals arrived at the spot, forming what police term an unlawful assembly.
"They were armed with wooden sticks, hurled abuses and began assaulting us," the victim stated in the First Information Report (FIR). In the ensuing scuffle, the complainant was hit on the face and body with fists and sticks, sustaining injuries near his eye. His cousin managed to flee the scene when one of the assailants reportedly brandished a knife.
Not content with the physical assault, the group then allegedly vandalized the cousin's parked scooter. Police have estimated the cost of this damage to be around Rs 25,000.
Police Action and Case Registered
The commotion and assault caused panic in the area, attracting the attention of passers-by who intervened and rescued the injured complainant. He was later taken to a hospital by a family member for necessary medical treatment.
Following the incident, the victim first submitted an application to the Sarkhej police and later lodged a formal complaint on Sunday. Acting on the FIR, the police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The charges include:
- Rioting
- Unlawful assembly
- Criminal intimidation
- Voluntarily causing hurt (assault)
- Mischief causing damage to property
An investigation into the violent late-night episode is currently underway as authorities work to identify and apprehend all individuals involved.
