Hyderabad Auto Driver Receives Recognition for Apprehending Chain Snatcher

An auto driver in Hyderabad has been felicitated by City Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar for his role in stopping a chain snatcher and assisting law enforcement.

Mohammed Zaher received a monetary award and a certificate of appreciation during a ceremony at the Commissioner's office in Banjara Hills on Tuesday. The honour recognises his intervention in a chain snatching incident that took place in the Begum Bazar area.

The chain snatching attempt occurred on March 4 near Jinsi Chowrah, where a woman named Manju Omlata was taking a morning walk with her daughter-in-law. A rowdy-sheeter identified as Mohammed Sohel from Dabirpura targeted the woman's gold chain. During the attempt, Sohel lost control of his scooter and fell.

Hearing the victim's cries for help, Zaher—who was driving his auto nearby—spotted the incident through his side mirror. Though his vehicle had already travelled approximately 100 metres past the scene, Zaher quickly reversed direction. He then drove his auto into Sohel's motorcycle to prevent the accused from fleeing. When Sohel attempted to strike Zaher with a stick, the driver resisted and managed to keep him contained until police arrived.

Patrolling officers reached the location and arrested Sohel. Zaher left the scene without expecting any recognition for his actions.

The victim later reported the incident to Goshamahal police station. CCTV recordings documented the entire sequence of events. Using the auto's registration details and technical evidence, police successfully located Zaher and arranged the recognition ceremony.

Police Commissioner Sajjanar remarked that Zaher's conduct exemplifies the kind of civic responsibility society needs. He emphasised that citizens should act decisively when witnessing crimes and collaborate with police efforts. Sajjanar also encouraged residents to contact Dial 100 for emergency assistance.

A case has been registered at Goshamahal police station against the accused. According to police records, Sohel has 16 previous cases registered across various police stations. Senior police officials participated in the felicitation event.