Bengaluru: Eleven youths were arrested under the Arms Act for allegedly displaying swords and machetes while riding motorbikes on a east Bengaluru road on Feb 13 night.
A video showing the youths astride seven bikes brandishing swords and machetes in DJ Halli went viral on social media, prompting police to act. The youths worked as mechanics, delivery agents and chicken shop assistants in DJ Halli and nearby localities.
Police commissioner B Dayananda said the gang travelled from KG Halli to Hoskote on the night of Feb 13. “The night-patrolling police did not notice them and I’ve sought a report,” he said, adding a rowdy-sheet will be opened against the suspects.
A senior police officer said cases will be booked against the youths. “Some of them are seen performing wheelies and we will register FIRs against them. For others, we will book cases for riding without a helmet, and rash and negligent riding,” he said.
Police investigation revealed the bike-borne youths holding swords and machetes would graze the weapons against the road surface, giving rise to sparks. “We have come across such acts in the past; the pillion rider of the fast-moving motorbike would rub the sword against the road. Such youths compete with each other during such times,” the officer added.