Latur, Maharashtra: A female traffic constable has apologised after being caught on video slapping and verbally abusing three young women who were allegedly riding a scooter in violation of traffic laws in Latur city.

The incident, which took place at Renapur Naka, came to light after a video surfaced on social media on Monday showing constable Pranita Musne confronting the trio. The women were reportedly riding triple-seat on a two-wheeler--an offence under traffic regulations--and allegedly operating the vehicle in a rash and unsafe manner.

In the video, Musne can be seen shouting at the women before slapping one of them. The constable later admitted to the incident and apologised publicly, while defending her intent.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Musne said she had been serving in the traffic department for over two years and was on her way to work after dropping her daughters off at tuition classes when she noticed the young women riding dangerously.

“I saw three women on a two-wheeler, one of them not seated properly and riding rashly. When I asked them to ride more safely, they told me to mind my own business,” Musne said.

She claimed the women continued to ride recklessly until they were forced to stop due to a state transport bus blocking their path. At that point, she confronted them and slapped one of them.

“I acted like a mother in that moment, not as a constable,” Musne said. “The language I used was wrong and I sincerely apologise to the women and their parents. But my intention was not wrong.”