An Indian-born man has been charged with driving a car and striking multiple pedestrians in the East Midlands city of Derby, leaving seven people injured.
The Saturday night incident took place in the Friar Gate area, a popular ‘nighttime economy’ district, at around 9:30 pm.
The suspect, identified as Sandhu Ponnachan, appeared before Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, April 1st. According to Derbyshire Constabulary, he faces six charges, including causing grievous bodily harm with intent, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article.
Ponnachan spoke only to confirm his personal details during the hearing and did not apply for bail. The court ordered that he be remanded in custody, with the case set to be referred to the Crown Court due to its seriousness.
Police confirmed that the victims were taken to hospital with serious but not life-threatening injuries. Four people have since been discharged, while others remain under medical care. Authorities have not indicated any motive behind the incident.
Ponnachan, originally from India, is reported to have lived in the United Kingdom for several years and is a resident of Derby. Saturday’s violence involving a motor vehicle has prompted the involvement of police counter-terror specialists in the ongoing investigation.
