Two Arrested for Attacking HRTC Bus in Kharar, Punjab Police Take Swift Action

Shimla, March 21: In a swift response to a shocking attack on a Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus, Punjab Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the vandalism that took place in Kharar, Mohali district, on March 18. The arrested suspects, identified as Gagandeep Singh, son of Jasbir Singh from Muktsar Sahib, and Hardeep Singh, son of Narendra Pal Singh from Bhatta Sahib (Ropar), were detained by the police shortly after the incident. Additionally, the police have recovered a car used in the attack from their possession.

The incident occurred when the HRTC bus, traveling from Chandigarh to Hamirpur, was unexpectedly ambushed near Kharar in the evening. The assailants, armed with sticks, attacked the bus, shattering its windscreen and several window panes. Fortunately, no passengers, the driver, or the conductor were injured in the attack. The sudden violence left everyone on board shaken, but the timely action of the bus crew ensured that the situation did not escalate further.

Upon receiving information about the attack, authorities took immediate action. Senior officials from the Police Headquarters in Shimla quickly engaged in discussions with the Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) of Punjab to ensure the case was resolved as quickly as possible. The timely coordination between state police forces led to a rapid investigation into the matter.

The investigation revealed that the attackers had attempted to obscure their identity by covering the number plate of their car with paper, making it initially difficult for authorities to trace the vehicle. Despite this effort to hide their identity, the Kharar City Police were promptly notified by a vigilant passenger, which allowed the police to reach the scene of the crime swiftly. The police removed the bus from the location and began their investigation immediately.

A First Information Report (FIR) was registered at SAS Nagar Police Station in Mohali, and as the investigation unfolded, both Gagandeep Singh and Hardeep Singh were arrested. The police also seized the car used by the attackers, further solidifying their case.

The incident has raised concerns over the safety of passengers traveling in state-run buses, and local authorities have assured the public that they will take strict action against anyone involved in such criminal activities. In light of the attack, the Punjab Police have pledged to enhance security for public transport and work closely with neighboring states to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The swift arrests of the two accused have been hailed as a major success for Punjab Police, highlighting the effectiveness of timely intervention and collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies. While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover the reasons behind this unprovoked assault on the public transport system.

As the case progresses, passengers and local residents are hopeful that this incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining law and order for the safety and security of all. The efforts of the police to quickly apprehend the suspects have brought some relief to the public, who are now awaiting further developments in the case.