Auto Driver Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case Involving Retired Army Officer
Police in Panchkula have made a significant arrest in a tragic hit-and-run case. Authorities captured an auto-rickshaw driver who had been absconding after a fatal accident claimed the life of a retired Lieutenant General.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
The accused driver has been identified as Om Prakash. He originally hails from Churu district in Rajasthan but was living in Saketri at the time of the incident. Police traced him through meticulous investigation methods.
Inspector Munish Kumar, the Station House Officer at Mansa Devi police station, explained their approach. "We conducted a detailed investigation in this matter," he stated. "After thoroughly examining CCTV footage and probing other aspects, we successfully traced the accused."
Background of the Tragic Incident
The victim's wife, a Panchkula resident, filed a formal complaint on January 10. She reported that her husband, retired Lieutenant General K S Mann, suffered a devastating accident on January 9.
According to her account, an auto-rickshaw struck the retired officer. The impact caused serious injuries that required immediate hospital treatment. Despite medical efforts, Lt Gen Mann succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
Police Response and Legal Action
Police registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These included Sections 281, 125(B), and 106. The investigation proceeded swiftly following the complaint.
Investigators identified the suspect on January 13. They made the arrest the very next day, demonstrating their commitment to resolving the case promptly.
Official Statements and Safety Measures
Deputy Commissioner of Police Srishti Gupta expressed profound grief over the incident. She outlined several measures to enhance road safety in the area:
- Intensifying police patrolling throughout the region
- Launching special drives targeting speeding and reckless driving
- Deploying additional personnel at accident-prone and sensitive locations
- Taking strict action against traffic rule violators
"We will also make citizens aware about road safety," DCP Gupta emphasized. "This awareness campaign aims to prevent recurrence of such tragedies."
Enhanced Security Initiatives
Inspector Munish Kumar detailed ongoing security enhancements. Aggressive patrolling is currently underway in the MDC area. This includes focused attention on several key locations:
- Sectors 4 and 6
- Mahadev Pura
- Areas adjoining Sukhna Lake
- Various market places
The SHO confirmed that these measures have effectively helped curb criminal activities. Police teams maintain regular interaction with residents to gather feedback. They conduct routine naka checking and ensure visible police presence at strategic locations.
Infrastructure Improvements Planned
Authorities have taken additional steps to strengthen community safety. They have written to concerned departments requesting installation of traffic lights at major junctions. The request also includes installation of CCTV cameras at these critical points.
These infrastructure improvements aim to further strengthen both road safety and general law and order throughout the area. Police confirm that investigation in this case continues as they gather additional evidence and information.