In a shocking incident from Karnataka's coastal city, a young man was apprehended by police for allegedly stealing an ambulance from a private hospital. The theft, which occurred in the heart of Mangaluru, led to a swift police response and the eventual recovery of the critical medical vehicle.
The Incident: A Brazen Theft from a Hospital
The events unfolded on the evening of May 10, 2024. According to the Mangaluru North police, the accused, identified as Mohammed Niyaz, a 24-year-old resident of Kumpala, targeted an ambulance parked at the Highland Hospital in Kodialbail. The vehicle, a Mahindra Bolero, was reportedly stolen around 7:30 PM. The driver had left the ambulance momentarily unattended, which provided Niyaz with an opportunity to jump in and drive away.
Police officials stated that the accused did not have a specific motive related to the vehicle's medical purpose. Instead, it appears he took the ambulance for a joyride. The theft was immediately reported to the authorities, triggering a search operation across the city.
The Chase and Arrest
Acting on the complaint and utilizing local intelligence, police teams from the Mangaluru North station launched a pursuit. Their efforts paid off when they located the stolen ambulance. However, upon seeing the police, Niyaz attempted to flee, leading to a brief chase.
The police successfully intercepted and stopped the vehicle. Mohammed Niyaz was taken into custody at the scene. The ambulance was recovered intact and was subsequently returned to the hospital authorities. The entire operation, from the theft to the arrest, was resolved within a short span, preventing any potential misuse of the essential service vehicle.
Legal Repercussions and Ongoing Investigation
Following the arrest, the Mangaluru North police have registered a formal case against Mohammed Niyaz. He has been charged under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to vehicle theft. The investigation is ongoing to ascertain if the accused has any prior criminal record or if there were any accomplices involved in the act.
This incident has raised concerns about the security of emergency service vehicles, even when parked at healthcare facilities. Hospitals and ambulance services often operate under the assumption that their life-saving vehicles are respected and safe from such crimes. The brazen theft highlights a need for increased vigilance.
Local authorities have assured the public of their commitment to maintaining law and order. The swift action in this case demonstrates the police department's responsiveness to crimes against critical public infrastructure. The case is now proceeding through the judicial system.
