I panicked, says arrested SUV driver who ran over five people

Police say suspect, if convicted, can get seven-year jail sentence

KARACHI:

The statement of the driver responsible for the recent incident involving a black double cabin SUV that struck five individuals, including a man, his two minor daughters, and a niece in Gulshan Iqbal Block, has been revealed.

In a video statement, the driver identified as Muawiaya, explained that he was gripped by fear in the aftermath of the accident, prompting him to flee the scene.

Muawiaya recounted that he had set out from his home in the double cabin SUV on the evening of August 27, at around 6:30pm. While attempting a U-turn near Iqra University in Gulshan Iqbal, an unexpected mechanical issue caused the accelerator to become stuck, leading to a loss of control over the vehicle. Tragically, this resulted in the SUV colliding with several people, including children standing by the roadside, and a rickshaw.

The driver revealed that the enraged bystanders at the scene began pelting stones at him after the accident, intensifying his fear and leading him to flee the location.

After the accident, the driver became aware of the injuries sustained by the victims through the viral video footage on social media. He further stated that his father had gone to the hospital to visit the injured parties, and he assured that his family would cover any damages incurred and medical expenses required for the victims' treatment.

According to the police, the arrested driver was accompanied by two friends at the time of the incident, and he possessed a valid computerized driving license. The police have scheduled the driver's court appearance for Saturday, during which the court will address any settlements between the arrested driver and the injured individuals. The charges against the arrested driver include two sections, namely, speeding and causing injury to citizens while driving, which could result in a possible seven-year prison sentence upon conviction.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 2^nd, 2023.