What Happened to the Ola Cab Driver Who Fled with Valuables Worth Over Rs 20 Lakh?
Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Bhubaneswar, an Ola cab driver was arrested for stealing valuables worth over Rs 20 lakh from a passenger. The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by travelers and raises questions about safety in ride-sharing services.
Key Takeaways
Incident highlights safety concerns regarding ride-sharing services.
Valuables worth over Rs 20 lakh were stolen.
Driver's prior involvement in four other criminal cases raises alarms.
Aman Kumar Agarwal was the victim in this disturbing case.
Police are taking measures to improve passenger safety.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 8 (NationPress) The Commissionerate Police took swift action on Thursday by apprehending an Ola cab driver accused of absconding with a passenger's valuables exceeding Rs 20 lakh in Bhubaneswar. The incident reportedly unfolded on the evening of January 7, as stated by the police.
The suspect has been identified as Nageswar Pramanik, a resident of Kuanpal village in the Mahanga police station area of Cuttack district.
In a press briefing, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Zone VI, Sonali Singh Parmar revealed that a formal complaint regarding the incident was lodged at the Chandrasekharpur police station on Wednesday.
The complaint was filed by Aman Kumar Agarwal, a businessman from Sector 9 in Cuttack city. Agarwal had returned to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar from Thailand late on Tuesday evening and subsequently booked an Ola cab with Pramanik as the driver.
While en route, Agarwal was conversing with his wife on the phone and inadvertently mentioned the expensive gifts he had brought back from Thailand. Authorities indicate that the driver overheard this conversation and allegedly plotted to steal the valuables.
During the ride, the accused tricked Agarwal into exiting the cab at Patia under false pretenses. Once Agarwal left the vehicle, the driver allegedly sped away with the passenger’s belongings, which included cash, valuables, and foreign currency, as reported by the police.
The stolen items comprised a gold chain, a gold bracelet, three gold gemstone rings, diamond earrings, a smartwatch, Indian currency amounting to approximately Rs 1 lakh, Thai Baht worth about 50,000, Agarwal’s passport, a wallet containing 10–12 credit and debit cards, and various other personal possessions, all valued at around Rs 20 lakh.
Following the theft, Agarwal filed a complaint at the Chandrasekharpur police station. Acting on this complaint, the police initiated a case and launched a search for the suspect.
Pramanik was apprehended on Thursday and presented in court, where he was ordered to be held in judicial custody.
During the investigation, it was revealed that the accused was allegedly involved in four additional criminal cases registered at various police stations, according to the ACP.
Point of View
It becomes imperative for companies to ensure stringent background checks and safety protocols for their drivers. Such crimes not only jeopardize individuals but also erode public trust in the industry. As a responsible news outlet, we advocate for enhanced security measures to protect consumers.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my valuables are stolen during a cab ride?
Immediately report the incident to the local police and the cab company. Provide all necessary details to assist in the investigation.
How can I ensure my safety while using ride-sharing services?
Always verify the driver's identity and vehicle details before getting in. Share your trip details with a friend or family member.
Are ride-sharing services safe?
While many ride-sharing services are generally safe, incidents like this highlight the importance of vigilance and awareness while using them.
