Bengaluru Police on Thursday arrested a bus driver accused of sexually harassing a 15-year-old passenger during her journey from Hyderabad to Bengaluru. The incident occurred when the bus entered the Basaveshwaranagar police station limits. The accused has been identified as Arif. According to police, the girl had contacted her mother over the phone to report the harassment while still on board the bus.
When the vehicle arrived in Bengaluru, the victim’s mother and brother confronted the driver, pulling him off the bus. Eyewitnesses told police that Arif admitted to the misconduct, folded his hands in apology, and pleaded for leniency. However, he was subsequently assaulted by the girl’s relatives and members of the public before officers intervened.
The victim’s mother later told the media that her daughter had boarded the sleeper bus from Hyderabad on Wednesday night. She alleged that the driver misbehaved with the minor during the journey.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the driver initially offered to recharge the girl’s mobile phone. When she requested it back, he allegedly told her he would return the device only if she kissed him. Police further stated that the driver repeatedly visited her seat and continued his advances despite her resistance.
Based on the complaint, the police rushed to the spot and took Arif into custody. Further investigation is underway, and officials said additional details will be shared once inquiries are complete.
Authorities have urged citizens to report such incidents immediately and reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of women and minors during public travel.