Daijiworld Media Network - Greater Noida

Greater Noida, Feb 28: A 22-year-old driver was detained after allegedly attempting to flee a fuel station without payment, triggering a dramatic chase that ended with a motorcycle being dragged for several kilometres along a major highway, police said.

The incident took place on Friday evening at a petrol pump in the Dhum Manikpur area of Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh. The accused, identified as Harsh from Sikandrabad, reportedly filled his black Mahindra Thar SUV with diesel and claimed he would pay the bill online. However, he allegedly drove away without completing the transaction.

Petrol pump employee Kuldeep Sharma chased the vehicle on a motorcycle along GT Road and onto National Highway 91. During the pursuit, the SUV collided with Sharma’s motorcycle, which became lodged against the front of the vehicle.

Police said the Thar continued moving, dragging the entangled motorcycle for nearly 5 to 7 kilometres. CCTV footage from the area captured the sequence, showing the motorcycle eventually catching fire while being dragged, with flames visible as the vehicle sped along the highway.

After receiving information about the incident, police launched a search operation and intercepted the SUV near the Luharli toll plaza. The driver was taken into custody and the vehicle seized for further examination.

Sharma sustained injuries in the collision and was undergoing medical treatment. Authorities described the case as serious, involving attempted fuel theft, rash and negligent driving, endangering life and other potential charges related to the fire and injuries.

Police said legal proceedings against the accused are underway.