The Kozhikode Rural police have finally traced the vehicle involved in a hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of an elderly woman and left her nine-year-old grandchild in a coma. The accident occurred on February 17, 2024, at Chorode near Vadakara, and the investigation has now identified the driver as Shajeel, a resident of Purameri, who reportedly fled to Dubai after the crash.
Puthalath Baby (62), from Kannur district, and her grandchild Drishana were hit while crossing the road after visiting a relative's home. Despite being rushed to a hospital, Baby succumbed to her injuries, while Drishana has remained in a coma ever since.
The pursuit of justice was fraught with delays and public outcry over alleged police inaction. However, a special squad led by Deputy Superintendent of Police VV Benny meticulously examined surveillance footage within a 40-km radius, checked the registration details of 19,000 vehicles, sifted through 50,000 call records, and inspected 500 automobile workshops before finally locating the white car bearing the registration number KL18 R 1846.
The car, seized on Friday, was altered by Shajeel, allegedly to conceal evidence. Police confirmed he replaced the front glass, bonnet, and headlights to avoid detection. District Police Chief P. Nidhinraj stated that measures are underway to extradite Shajeel from the UAE.
"We intensified the investigation after public protests and the intervention of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission. We will ensure that Shajeel is brought back to face the law," Nidhinraj said, adding that the police would also assist Drishana's family in securing accident insurance claims for her treatment.