Visually impaired student catches snatcher in N Delhi

NEW DELHI: A 26-year-old visually impaired student of Delhi University (DU) caught a bike-borne snatcher near GTB Metro station in north Delhi on Friday night even

NEW DELHI: A 26-year-old visually impaired student of Delhi University (DU) caught a bike-borne snatcher near GTB Metro station in north Delhi on Friday night even after he was repeatedly punched in the face.

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The snatcher, along with his two accomplices, snatched the student’s Mo to G Plus mobile phone as he was going to an ATM booth from DU’s Mansarowar Hostel. The accused were riding a Bajaj Discover motorcycle. The DU student, Sakir Hussain, overpowered the snatcher and wrestled with him for a good two minutes. After the snatcher got away, he chased him for around 200 m before getting hold of him again with the locals’ help. However, he could not stop the other two snatchers fleeing with his mobile phone, purchased only a month ago.

Nonetheless, Hussain’s valiant efforts helped the Delhi Police bust a gang of bike-borne snatchers that was involved in similar crimes in the locality. They arrested one of the gang members, identified as Vijay Gupta, 22.

Hussain’ s courage has impressed senior police officers. They have planned to honour and reward him at a public meeting.

Re calling the incident, Hussain said the crime took place around 11.15pm. “Three men on a bike approached. They said they were acquaintances. Suddenly, they snatched my phone. Since my earphones were attached to it, I could stop them from fleeing with my phone,” said Hussain, who is enrolled in M. Phil (History) under the disabled persons category.

When the three attempted to speed off, the DU student grabbed the pillion rider by his shoulder and threw the bike off balance. While Hussain overpowered the accused, his accomplices fled with his mobile phone on the bike.

“The snatcher I overpowered hit me repeatedly on my nose, shoulder and head. But I did not lose my grip,” said Hussain.

When the snatcher failed to release himself, he started to scream. A youth then diverted Hussain’s attention. As Hussain lost his grip, the suspect began running away. Hussa inc has ed him and caught him with the help of locals, who thrashed him.

Vijay Singh, DCP (northwest), said, “We registered a case and arrested Gupta. I am recommending a reward for Hussain for his heroism.”