Masti Band's world was turned upside down when their stolen van, carrying priceless musical equipment, was involved in a devastating police chase collision on the A46 near Leicester. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of 29 June, has left the pop-bhangra act reeling and forced them to alter their upcoming performances.
The van, which had been stolen from a car park on Walnut Street in Leicester just five days earlier, contained an assortment of crucial equipment, including mixing desks, amplifiers, speakers, and – most significantly – bespoke drums. Among the items was a dhol drum belonging to percussionist Surinder Sandhu, 62, from Leicester, which he had played for over four decades and held immense sentimental value.
Rana described being 'completely shocked and horrified' not only by the loss of their equipment but also by the serious injuries sustained by the driver of the BMW, a man in his 20s, who remains in hospital receiving treatment. Some of the equipment was recently purchased, and their insurance had yet to be updated to cover all items, exacerbating the band's woes.
The recovery of one speaker from an undisclosed address has provided some solace, but Masti Band's future performances are now in limbo as they navigate a new reality without key equipment. Niks Rogacs, 26, from Leicester, has been charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving, theft of a vehicle, and driving without insurance; he is currently on bail ahead of his appearance at Leicester Crown Court on 17 August for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
Leicestershire Police's pursuit of Rogacs has also come under scrutiny, with the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) reviewing their involvement in the incident. The IOPC investigation is ongoing, while Rogacs' case continues to unfold through the courts.
The devastating consequences of this collision have left a lasting impact on Masti Band and the wider community. As the legal proceedings continue, one thing is clear – the road to recovery for all parties involved will be long and arduous.