A dramatic police chase in Coimbatore has drawn attention after Head Constable M. Velmurugan of Kovilpalayam Police Station held on to the roof rails of a fleeing SUV for nearly 40 kilometres while police pursued suspected gutka smugglers.
The incident took place on September 27, when a police team acting on information about the movement of banned tobacco products attempted to stop a Karnataka-registered SUV near the Vilankurichi–Kovilapalayam area. The vehicle initially slowed down but allegedly accelerated towards Avinashi when officers tried to intercept it.
During the attempt to stop the vehicle, Sub-Inspector V. Vignesh was reportedly caught briefly when the driver raised the window and moved the SUV. As the vehicle sped away, Head Constable Velmurugan climbed onto its roof and held firmly onto the roof rails.
The chase continued for several kilometres along the Avinashi route, with police teams from different stations and highway patrol personnel joining the pursuit. The SUV was eventually stopped near the Avinashi–Karumathampatti area, and Velmurugan was brought to safety without suffering injuries.
Police subsequently arrested three men from Rajasthan and seized the vehicle along with a consignment of banned gutka and other tobacco products. Reports differ on the exact quantity seized, with figures ranging from more than 100 kg to around 230–300 kg.
Following the incident, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay spoke to Velmurugan and commended his courage, presence of mind and commitment to duty. The Chief Minister also advised the head constable to prioritise his safety while performing his responsibilities.
The dramatic chase has since attracted widespread attention, highlighting the risks faced by police personnel while tackling the illegal transportation of banned tobacco products.
