Watch: Drunk man steals Telangana bus, triggers 18-km police chase

A man allegedly under the influence of alcohol stole a Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) bus and triggered an 18-kilometre police chase before being apprehended. The incident occurred at the Korutla bus stand in Jagtial district, according to local authorities. The suspect, who was reportedly intoxicated, spotted an unattended RTC bus parked on the premises and took control of the vehicle, driving it toward Metpalli. Security personnel at the RTC facility quickly identified the unauthorized movement of the bus through its GPS tracking system and notified the police. Law enforcement swiftly initiated a pursuit, following the stolen vehicle as it sped along the highway. During the chase, the accused allegedly drove recklessly, colliding with three two-wheelers and a police car, causing disruption and alarm among nearby traffic. Commuters and motorcyclists were caught off guard by the sudden confrontation, leading to a chaotic scene on the road. The police managed to intercept the bus near Metpalli after blocking the highway. This action caused the vehicle to lose control, resulting in a crash into a roadside tree. Despite the accident, the suspect attempted to escape but was subdued by officers on the scene. He was subsequently taken into custody. The police have filed a formal case against the individual and are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the theft. Authorities are also examining how the accused managed to gain entry to the bus and operate it without detection from the depot. The incident highlights potential vulnerabilities in the security protocols of public transportation services. While the RTC employs GPS monitoring systems, the failure to detect the unauthorized departure of the bus raises questions about the effectiveness of current measures. Investigators are looking into whether there were lapses in surveillance or procedural oversight that allowed the theft to occur unnoticed. Additionally, they are exploring the possible motives behind the act, which remain unclear at this stage. Local residents expressed concern over the safety of public transport infrastructure and the need for stricter security measures. Some pointed out that similar incidents, though rare, have occurred in the past, suggesting a pattern that warrants closer scrutiny. Others emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance and ensuring that all vehicles are properly secured, especially during periods of low activity or maintenance. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the suspect’s identity or his prior history. However, the case has already sparked discussions within law enforcement circles about the necessity of enhancing security protocols at bus depots and improving coordination between security personnel and police units. There is also talk of increasing patrols in areas where such incidents could potentially occur. As investigations continue, officials are expected to provide more information on the findings and any proposed reforms aimed at preventing future occurrences. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in securing public assets and the critical role of both technology and human oversight in mitigating risks. The case remains under active review, with further updates anticipated in the coming days.