Kozhikode City: Six months ago, the accused was involved in a hit-and-run case. Mohammad Shabadi (23), a resident of Perumukham, Farok, Kozhikode, was arrested by the Farok police at his residence in Eintingal. The vehicle involved in the accident, a red Swift car, was also seized. The only clue the police had was the color and model of the car. Following an extensive investigation, the police finally arrested the accused and confiscated the car. The incident in question occurred on March 23, near the Ramanattukara Poovannur Palli bus stop at around 9:40 p.m.
Shabad was driving a Swift car when he struck two pedestrians—Rajish Kumar (44) of Madanna and VP Ashrafi (58) of Vaali Parampil, Thirurangadi Manniyur—before fleeing the scene. Both victims sustained serious injuries to their heads and shoulders. Although there were eyewitnesses, no additional details could be gathered as the vehicle sped away. The witnesses recalled that it was a red car with a registration number beginning with KL 65. After reviewing CCTV footage from a nearby establishment, police confirmed it was a new model Swift.
The police then focused on identifying KL65-registered new model Maruti Swift cars. With assistance from RTO officials, they collected information on 55 owners of such cars and began their investigation. This eventually led them to one of Shabad’s relatives, who revealed that Shabad often used his car. When both Shabad and his relative were questioned at the police station, Shabad confessed to the crime. A case was subsequently filed against him.
The six-month-long investigation was successfully concluded by a team led by Farok Assistant Commissioner Mr. AM Siddique and Inspector Mr. Sreejith, with support from SI Mr. RS Vinayan and Civil Police Officer Mr. Sanup.
