Southern India

Chennai, India — A dramatic 15-kilometre police chase unfolded in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Monday after a man stole a parked truck near a toll plaza, prompting a rapid response from local authorities and ending with his arrest.

The incident began near the Paranur toll plaza, where a truck driver employed by a man named Anbu from Kelambakkam had momentarily stepped away from his vehicle to recharge his Fastag, India’s electronic toll collection system. Seizing the opportunity, an unidentified individual climbed into the unattended, loaded truck and sped off toward the city of Chennai.

Upon discovering the theft, the driver quickly alerted the police, who mobilized patrol units stationed nearby, including at Singaperumal Kovil and Mahindra City. Officers on two-wheelers soon engaged in a high-speed pursuit of the stolen vehicle.

In a daring moment during the chase, a traffic constable managed to latch onto the side of the moving truck as it briefly slowed down. Despite the officer clinging to the vehicle, the suspect continued driving recklessly.

The chase came to a dramatic conclusion at a busy intersection, where the suspect attempted to veer off onto a service road. His escape attempt was thwarted when the truck crashed into cement blocks, finally bringing the vehicle to a stop.

With assistance from bystanders, the police subdued and detained the man. Authorities are currently working to establish his identity and determine the motive behind the attempted theft.

The constable who clung to the truck escaped without serious injuries. The incident has drawn attention to both the vigilance of Tamil Nadu’s traffic police and the risks they face in the line of duty.