A food delivery rider for the quick-commerce platform Zepto became the victim of a violent assault in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The attack followed a minor road accident involving his vehicle and a two-wheeler.
Violent Assault on a Working Professional
The incident occurred in the Mahadevpura area of the city. According to police reports, the altercation began after a slight collision between the Zepto delivery executive's vehicle and a scooty ridden by two individuals. What started as a minor road dispute rapidly escalated into a severe physical attack.
The two assailants, still on their scooty, reportedly began hitting the delivery executive. They used a helmet as a weapon and also punched him repeatedly. The rider, who was on duty at the time, was caught off guard and found himself unable to protect himself against the two attackers on the public road.
Elderly Bystander Steps In to Prevent Further Violence
The situation was defused by the courageous action of an elderly man who witnessed the assault. He confronted the two attackers on the scooty, intervening directly to stop the beating. His timely action is believed to have prevented the delivery executive from suffering more serious injuries. The assailants fled the scene after the intervention.
The delivery executive, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was left shaken and injured on the road. The entire episode highlights the vulnerabilities faced by gig economy workers who spend long hours on city streets.
Police Launch Investigation Into the Incident
Bengaluru Police have taken official note of the violent episode and have confirmed that an investigation is currently underway. Authorities are likely examining available CCTV footage from the area to identify and apprehend the two individuals involved in the attack.
This incident adds to growing concerns about road rage and violence against delivery personnel in major Indian cities. Companies like Zepto, Swiggy, and Zomato employ thousands of riders who frequently face aggression during their delivery rounds.
The police have not yet made any arrests but are pursuing leads. The public response, particularly the elderly man's intervention, has been noted as a positive act of citizen responsibility amidst the distressing event.
