Three Arrested After Car Hits Children During Prophet’s Day Rally in Alappuzha

Doha, Qatar Aug 26, 2026 ALN: The Venmani police in Alappuzha have arrested three men following a hit-and-run incident that left four nine-year-old boys injured during a Prophet’s Day rally. The accused individuals, identified as Anudev, 31, and Abin S, 27, both from Mezhuvelil in Pathanamthitta, and Anuraj, 28, from Venmani, were apprehended shortly after the incident.

The incident took place around 5 pm on a Tuesday at Kollakadavu Junction in Cheriyanadu. This area was the site of a Prophet’s Day procession organized by the Muslim Jama-Ath Masjid, Kollakadavu. Such processions are significant in the Muslim community, marking the observance of Prophet Muhammad's birthday, and often involve large gatherings and celebrations. In anticipation of the event, local law enforcement and volunteers had been stationed at the junction to manage traffic and ensure the safety of participants.

According to reports, the procession was moving through the junction when the car approached from the same direction. Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media depict the car moving at a high speed through the crowded rally. The children at the front of the procession did not immediately notice the vehicle, leading to a chaotic scene where locals and volunteers attempted to alert the children and move them out of harm's way. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the vehicle struck four boys, causing them to fall onto the road.

The First Information Report (FIR) filed by the police indicates that Anudev, the driver of the vehicle, was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The car, which bore registration plates 'KL-41 P 2757', was allegedly being driven recklessly on the Kollam–Theni road. The FIR further details that Anuraj and Abin, who were passengers in the car, were also intoxicated. This raises serious concerns about the behavior of the individuals involved, as driving under the influence significantly increases the risk of accidents.

Eyewitnesses reported that when the procession reached the junction, organizers attempted to signal the driver to stop, allowing the rally to pass safely. However, despite these signals, Anuraj and Abin reportedly encouraged Anudev to continue driving, disregarding the safety of the children and the participants of the procession. This decision ultimately led to the collision with the four boys.

The injured children have been identified as Muhammed Shahabas, Haroon, Basith, and Basil, all residents of Cheruvaloor in Cheriyanadu. Initial assessments of their injuries revealed that Shahabas sustained a minor injury to his right hand, while Haroon experienced swelling in his right leg. Basith reported swelling below his right knee, and all four boys complained of severe pain. Fortunately, the injuries were described as minor, primarily resulting from the impact of the fall rather than severe trauma from the vehicle itself.

Following the incident, the accused failed to provide any assistance to the injured children and fled the scene. This lack of accountability and failure to render aid is a serious offense under both civil and criminal law. The police officers present at the junction, who were overseeing traffic and the procession, acted swiftly by contacting their station to report the incident. Utilizing details about the direction in which the vehicle fled, a police team pursued the car and apprehended the accused shortly after they crossed into the neighboring Thazhakkara panchayat.

After their arrest, the three men underwent medical examinations and were formally charged. They are expected to be presented in court soon, where they will likely face serious legal repercussions for their actions. The charges against them include violations under Sections 281 (rash or negligent driving) and 125(a) (rash or negligent acts endangering human life or personal safety) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as well as multiple sections of the Motor Vehicles Act. These include Sections 184 (dangerous driving), 185 (driving under the influence of alcohol), and others that mandate drivers to stop after an accident, provide assistance to those injured, and report the incident to authorities.

This incident has sparked discussions within the community regarding road safety, particularly during large public gatherings. The presence of alcohol in this situation raises further questions about the responsibility of individuals to ensure the safety of themselves and others while participating in community events. Additionally, it highlights the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, especially concerning drunk driving, which remains a significant issue in many regions.

As the investigation continues, community leaders and local authorities may consider implementing additional measures to enhance safety during public events. These could include increased police presence, more robust traffic management strategies, and public awareness campaigns aimed at educating individuals about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of civic responsibility during community gatherings.

The incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of reckless behavior, particularly in environments where large groups of people are gathered. Ensuring the safety of children and participants during such events is a collective responsibility that requires vigilance, respect for traffic laws, and a commitment to community welfare.