Drug-addicted youths rob auto driver after fleeing rehab in Bengaluru outskirts

Bengaluru, : In a shocking incident highlighting the growing link between substance abuse and crime, two youths—one aged 21 and a 17-year-old minor—allegedly robbed an auto driver after escaping from a rehabilitation centre on the city’s outskirts. The incident, which occurred in early March, came to light following a detailed police investigation.

According to police, the accused had escaped from a rehabilitation facility nearly a month before committing the crime. Struggling with addiction and reportedly in need of money to sustain their habits, the duo decided to target an unsuspecting victim.

The case was registered at Bagalur Police Station based on a complaint filed by auto driver Darshan C.R., a resident of Rayasandra in Electronics City. On March 01, the accused booked an auto through an app and boarded the vehicle at Hoskote, asking the driver to take them towards the rear gate of Kempegowda International Airport.

However, midway near Budigere Cross, the duo instructed the driver to change route, claiming they needed to visit a friend’s house. They made the driver roam around for several hours before directing him to a secluded area with minimal public movement.

When the driver demanded ₹1,080 as fare, the accused reportedly tried to evade payment, saying a friend would pay. As suspicion grew, Darshan insisted on immediate payment. At this point, the minor allegedly distracted the driver while the main accused, identified as Kanish, attacked him with a stone, striking his head.

The complaint states that the accused continued assaulting the driver, breaking four of his teeth. They then fled with ₹28,000 in cash, two mobile phones, and the auto rickshaw.

Following the complaint, a police team led by Inspector Ashok launched an investigation. On March 25, Kanish was arrested near Harlur at a rehabilitation centre. During interrogation, he confessed to stealing a mobile phone from the rehab centre owner and using it to book the auto.

Police said the accused later sold the stolen auto in Malur, Kolar district, for ₹5,000 by falsely claiming it belonged to his father, who was allegedly hospitalised. He even showed a downloaded patient image to convince the buyer.

The stolen money and sale proceeds were reportedly spent on alcohol and cigarettes. While Kanish has been arrested, the minor accomplice remains absconding.

Police have recovered the stolen auto and are continuing efforts to trace the juvenile. The case underscores concerns over addiction-driven crimes and the need for stronger rehabilitation monitoring.