When Honking Turns Violent

TDT | Manama

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A simple honk escalated into a violent altercation in Souq Waqif, leaving a motorist with a permanent disability and a damaged car.

The First High Criminal Court has fixed September 16 to issue its ruling in the case against a 24-year-old defendant accused of assault and criminal damage.

According to the Public Prosecution, the incident unfolded on April 15 when the defendant blocked the victim’s path. After an exchange of words, the defendant allegedly punched the motorist in the nose, causing heavy bleeding. The forensic report confirmed a deviated nasal septum and partial blockage of the left nasal passage, amounting to a five percent permanent impairment. The defendant also stands accused of deliberately damaging the victim’s car.

Honking Trigger

During Sunday’s hearing, the defendant admitted to throwing the punch but claimed he was provoked by the victim’s repeated honking. The victim, however, told the court he had only honked to alert the defendant after his path was blocked. He said the confrontation turned hostile when the defendant verbally insulted him, struck him in the face, and then kicked and broke his windshield.