Ambalavayal: What started as a late-night attempt to shoot social media reels ended in tragedy, as a jeep plunged into a reservoir near the Nellarachal viewpoint in Ambalavayal. The vehicle lost control while being driven recklessly down a steep slope near the dam in the early hours of Saturday. All five occupants escaped unhurt.

According to police, the group had gone to the spot to record reels. The vehicle was seen dangerously manoeuvring along the edge of the steep terrain near the reservoir. Local residents said they had seen the jeep late at night, and by morning, found it submerged in water.

The occupants identified as PK Fayis of Meenangadi, and Muhammad Rahin, Muhammad Rijas, Muhammad Shafi and Muhammad Shanif, all from Vadakara, were arrested and produced in court.

Police, with the help of locals, managed to recover the vehicle from the water. The incident is the second such mishap at the same location, where a tractor had recently overturned.

Residents have raised repeated concerns about the rise in reckless off-road driving and late-night visits by youth using the location for shooting social media content.

Block Panchayat member AS Vijaya has demanded strict rules and safety measures for visitors at the viewpoint. Ambalavayal SHO Anoop confirmed that police are now closely monitoring the area and will take strict action against unauthorised activities.