Police add tougher charges against Muhammed Ansar after viral video, alleged assault on ASI and a second road-rage complaint
A private bus employee accused of threatening an expatriate Malayali family during a road-rage incident in Kochi has been rearrested after public criticism over his initial release on station bail. Police are also examining the possibility of invoking the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) against him.
Muhammed Ansar, a Kannur native, was initially arrested by Ernakulam North police after a video of the August 9 incident near Deshabhimani Junction went viral. The footage allegedly showed him blocking a car carrying an NRI family, attempting to open its door and striking the bonnet and windscreen after the occupants questioned the manner in which a private bus had been driven.
Police later alleged that Ansar resisted arrest when officers approached him and assaulted Assistant Sub-Inspector Sunil. According to the police complaint, the officer was pushed to the ground and struck in the face, causing an injury.
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Despite the allegation of assault on a police officer, Ansar was initially booked under a bailable provision and released on station bail
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The decision triggered criticism on social media and prompted questions about the handling of the case
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Police subsequently rearrested him and said stricter, non-bailable provisions would be added
The case also drew attention to a separate complaint involving another motorist. On August 22, Ansar allegedly blocked a car near Vazhakkala after overtaking it, abused the driver and repeatedly struck the vehicle’s bonnet. Thrikkakara police later registered a separate case in connection with the complaint.
Kochi City Police are now examining whether KAAPA provisions can be applied, citing the allegations of repeated incidents and Ansar’s reported previous criminal cases.
