A video showing a human hand hanging out of the trunk of a white Innova car caused widespread panic among citizens on Monday evening, prompting a swift response from Navi Mumbai Police. However, an investigation revealed that the incident was part of a promotional stunt by four men who were filming a video reel to advertise laptop sales.
The video, which quickly went viral on social media, was shot near the service road adjacent to the Vashi-Sanpada railway stations. Alarmed citizens reported the suspicious sighting to the police, fearing a potential crime scene involving a body hidden in the trunk.
Responding promptly, the Sanpada police and the Crime Branch tracked the vehicle using its registration number. Investigations led them to Meenhaj Sheikh, a resident of Koparkhairane, who had borrowed the car from a Sakinaka-based owner for a wedding event. Upon being questioned, Sheikh revealed that he owns a laptop repair and sales shop in Haware Fantasia building, Vashi.
“Sheikh admitted that the group had staged the scene as part of a promotional reel, aiming to grab attention by creating the illusion of a body in the trunk. The act, however, sparked fear and confusion among the public. For making the reel, they drove the vehicle negligently on the road and they have been booked for the same,” Assistant Commissioner of Police (crime branch) Ajay Landge said.
Sanpada police subsequently detained Meenhaj Mohammad Amin Sheikh (25), Shahawar Tariq Sheikh (24), Mohammad Anas Ahmed Sheikh (30), and Inzamam Akhtar Raza Sheikh. All four were booked under Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act for negligent driving and misuse of the vehicle and were later released.
Landge further said, “The investigation confirmed that the incident was not a criminal act, but a misguided promotional stunt. While the intent may not have been malicious, such acts that create fear and public disturbance will not be tolerated. We urge the youth and content creators to act responsibly, especially on digital platforms.”
