COIMBATORE: Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay on Tuesday congratulated head constable Velmurugan of Kovilpalayam police station for his daring act of clinging to the roof of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) for nearly 40 km to prevent gutka smugglers from escaping.Velmurugan met the CM in Chennai. The CM appreciated his courage, presence of mind and commitment to duty. Vijay advised Velmurugan to be safe while on duty.The incident occurred on Sept 27 when a police team intercepted an SUV suspected to be transporting gutka in the Vilankurichi area. When the vehicle sped away, Velmurugan climbed onto its roof and remained there as the SUV moved towards Avinashi. The police team continued the chase, with Velmurugan clinging to the roof of the moving vehicle. The vehicle was eventually intercepted near Avinashi in a coordinated operation.Police seized gutka along with the vehicle used to transport the contraband. Three people were arrested.The head constable’s actions had earlier drawn attention after details of the dramatic chase emerged. The police department said his decision to remain on the roof of the vehicle, despite the risk to his life, had helped prevent the suspects from escaping.
