In a disturbing incident near Shantadurga Temple in Calangute, Mapusa police have arrested a bus driver and conductor on charges of assaulting two tourists from Pune. The altercation reportedly erupted when the tourists, caught in a traffic jam, were unable to give way to the bus, leading to a violent confrontation.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Cajie Laurence D’Souza (41), the bus driver hailing from Anjuna, and Sahil Kashinath Jadhav (18), the conductor from Parra. The victims, identified as Pratik Sitaram Alhat and Sultan Shaikh, both residents of Pune, sustained injuries during the assault.
The incident unfolded when the tourists, riding on their scooters, found themselves trapped in a traffic jam. A bus traveling along the Calangute-Mapusa route approached from behind and began honking. In response, one of the tourists informed the bus driver that, due to the traffic situation, it was not possible to move the scooter forward.
This exchange reportedly led to a confrontation, with the bus driver and conductor allegedly verbally abusing and physically assaulting the tourists. The victims, Pratik Sitaram Alhat and Sultan Shaikh, sustained injuries in the altercation.
Mapusa police swiftly responded to the incident, apprehending the bus driver and conductor. Both individuals are now facing charges related to the assault on the Pune-based tourists. The authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter to gather evidence and statements from witnesses.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and conduct of public transportation personnel, prompting authorities to reiterate the importance of maintaining decorum and refraining from resorting to violence. As the legal proceedings progress, the local community and tourists alike are hopeful that such incidents will be met with strict consequences to ensure the safety of all individuals on the road.
