CHENNAI: Tension gripped the city’s police force after a video went viral on Thursday showing murder suspects intimidating and threatening cops inside a police escort van en route to Puzhal Prison from Egmore magistrate court. The incident occurred around 8 pm near Dr Ambedkar Government Arts and Science College, Vyasarpadi, and resulted in damage to the police vehicle.
Police confirmed the detention of four inmates—Yogaraj, Vivek alias Kulla, Sankar alias Sankar Bai, and Napoleon—who have multiple criminal cases to their names.
Van Escort Turns Violent
According to police, a team of 30 armed reserve (AR) personnel was escorting eight remand inmates when constable Praveen noticed a motorbike trailing the van suspiciously. A pillion rider passed a parcel through the window to Vivek, triggering alarm.
When questioned about the parcel, Vivek became abusive, and Yogaraj, Sankar, and Napoleon joined him in verbally threatening the officers. Despite efforts by head constable Ilango and grade-I constable Karthik to calm them, the confrontation escalated.
One of the inmates smashed the windshield during the altercation. Police eventually regained control, subdued the accused, and returned them to Puzhal Prison–II.
Case Registered
A formal complaint was filed at MKB Nagar police station, and a new case was registered against the four for criminal intimidation, damage to government property, and obstruction of duty.
Background: Robert Murder Case
The four suspects were previously arrested in connection with the brutal murder of 28-year-old history-sheeter Robert alias Chinna Robert on February 27 near his home in Annai Sathya Nagar, Anna Nagar. Robert was hacked to death by a masked gang, who later posted a video on Instagram declaring, “Robert mattai 100%” (Robert is 100% dead), sparking public outrage and widespread condemnation.
They were arrested shortly afterward and have been in judicial custody since.
Security Concerns Raised
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over prisoner escort security protocols, especially involving high-risk inmates. Authorities are now reviewing procedures to prevent further breaches during transport.
