Bengaluru cop dies in crash after drug bust

A sub-inspector with the Thalaghattapura police station in Bengaluru died early Sunday morning, five days after sustaining critical injuries in a road accident while transporting drug suspects.

The officer, 40-year-old Mahboob Guddahalli, was escorting two accused—Sayed Wasim and Sayed Amir—to the police station for interrogation on June 25 when the police vehicle was struck by a speeding truck near Surya City, under the Hebbagodi police limits. The impact of the collision caused severe injuries to Mahboob, including fractured ribs and internal trauma.

Following the crash, both suspects fled the scene and remain at large. The truck involved in the accident and its driver have not yet been identified. Mahboob was immediately shifted to a hospital where he underwent surgery for an intestinal infection that developed during treatment. However, his condition deteriorated post-surgery. He suffered a sudden drop in blood pressure and passed away in the early hours of June 29.

The deceased officer is survived by his wife and two children. His untimely death has sparked concern among the police fraternity and raised questions over transportation security protocols for detainees.

Investigations are ongoing to trace the absconding suspects and the unidentified truck involved in the incident. The Bengaluru Police Department has expressed deep condolences and described Mahboob as a committed and brave officer who died in the line of duty. A departmental inquiry into the incident is also underway to assess any lapses in procedure.