Bicyclist severely apprehended in public park (VIDEO)
A viral social media video, capturing an altercation at Central Park, Astana, depicts police detaining a bicyclist, as per Liter.kz's initial account.
The clip showcases a young man being forcefully restrained and cuffed, escorted away to a police station. Bystanders seem outraged and question the police actions.
Aside from the camera, a voice is heard claiming the detainee merely came to exercise:
"He came here to ride his bike. I'm gonna sue you," states the video poster.
Causing an uproar across social media, individuals demand responses from the law enforcement.
"Why did they gotta twist his arms like that? Did he resist or attack them? A fine would've been enough. Why use force and risk injuries?"
"What's up with that brutal force against an innocent citizen?"
"Why not just jot down his ID and slap a fine for rule violations? Why rough up civilians like that?"
"What, he ain't resisting?"
Reaching out to the Astana Police Department's press service for clarification, no official statement on this particular event has been provided.
"While on patrol, police encountered a cyclist riding on a pedestrian bridge where cycling was prohibited. Intending to warn him about the necessity to abide by traffic rules, the officer was met with aggressive behavior from the cyclist who refused compliance with lawful demands. Consequently, the regulations-mandated actions were taken, and he was taken to the station," stated the department.
Emphasizing that rules are universal and adherence is a shared responsibility, the department added:
"An investigation has been launched, and a fair evaluation of all participants involved in the event will follow."
- Social media users, noticeably upset by the video, are questioning the use of force against the cyclist.
- Posts claim the cyclist was merely exercising, and the police response seemed excessive, with some demanding the release of the man.
- The Astana Police Department, upon request for clarification, stated that the cyclist was riding on a pedestrian bridge where cycling was prohibited, and he showed aggressive behavior and refused to comply with lawful demands.
- The department added that an investigation has been initiated, and a fair evaluation of all parties involved will be conducted.
- Amidst the general-news causing an uproar, voices in health-and-wellness, media, and crime-and-justice sectors are questioning the interpretation and application of rules in public spaces.
