By Marlon Dale Ferreira
Videos linked to an alleged Balti Saman roadside scam have prompted warnings for motorists in Maharagama, Nugegoda and Attidiya.
A man widely known by the nickname “Balti Saman”, or “Somersault Saman”, has come under renewed public scrutiny after videos circulating on social media appeared to show him allegedly attempting to obtain money from motorists by pretending to have been struck by their vehicles.
Balti Saman is already known in some areas for performing dramatic somersaults during festive street processions. However, according to accounts accompanying the videos now being shared online, he has also allegedly used that ability in a far more troubling way — by targeting unsuspecting motorists, particularly at traffic lights.
The alleged method is simple but potentially frightening for drivers.
According to those familiar with the incidents, Balti Saman positions himself close to vehicles waiting at traffic signals. As a vehicle begins moving after the light turns green, he allegedly makes deliberate contact with the vehicle, sometimes striking himself against a side mirror, before dramatically falling or performing a somersault onto the road.
To the driver, the incident can initially appear to be a genuine pedestrian collision.
Motorists can therefore be left shocked and frightened, believing they may have injured someone and could be facing police action, medical expenses or even criminal proceedings.
It is at this stage that the alleged demand for money is said to begin.
Video From Maharagama Raises Alarm
One of two recent videos circulating on social media appears to show an incident in Maharagama, on the outskirts of Colombo.
In the footage, the man identified as Balti Saman appears to complain of pain around his rib area while speaking to a motorist. He can be heard indicating that he would attend hospital himself, while the interaction appears to move towards a request for money.
However, the situation changes when a passing police officer intervenes.
The officer appears to immediately recognise the man and warns the driver not to hand over money. The officer then attempts to move the man away from the area, apparently indicating that he is already familiar with similar behaviour.
The intervention is significant because it suggests that the individual may already be known locally in connection with such incidents.
A second video, apparently recorded on another occasion, shows a member of the public filming the same man walking along a road while warning motorists to be cautious of a person known as Balti Saman.
Social-media posts accompanying the footage also allege that similar incidents have occurred in Attidiya, Nugegoda and surrounding areas.
The Morning Telegraph has not independently established the full history of these alleged incidents, and the videos alone do not constitute a criminal conviction. However, the footage and the apparent recognition of the individual by a police officer are sufficient to raise a legitimate public-safety concern.
Drivers Should Not Panic
The most important message for motorists is not to panic if confronted with a suspicious roadside accident claim.
Drivers who genuinely believe they may have struck a pedestrian should stop safely, remain at the scene and contact the police or emergency services where necessary.
However, motorists should also be cautious about immediately handing over cash to anyone demanding money following an incident.
If there is any doubt about what occurred, the safest course is to involve the police and allow the matter to be formally recorded.
Dash-camera footage, nearby CCTV, photographs, witness statements and video recordings can also become extremely important in establishing what actually happened.
Drivers should additionally avoid confrontations or attempting to physically restrain anyone involved.
A Public Awareness Warning
The purpose of highlighting these videos is not to encourage vigilantism or harassment, but to ensure that motorists are aware of a potentially dangerous form of roadside deception.
An unsuspecting driver who believes he or she has injured someone can be placed under enormous emotional pressure. In such circumstances, a demand for immediate payment may seem like the easiest way to resolve the matter.
That is precisely why awareness is important.
Motorists in Maharagama, Nugegoda, Attidiya and surrounding areas should remain alert, particularly when moving away from traffic signals or travelling through busy pedestrian areas.
Anyone encountering a similar incident should avoid making an immediate cash settlement and instead contact the police so that the circumstances can be properly investigated.
The man shown in the circulating footage has been identified publicly by the nickname “Balti Saman” or “Somersault Saman.” Until any allegations are formally investigated and determined by the authorities, they remain allegations.
Nevertheless, the videos offer an important reminder to drivers: if an accident claim appears suspicious, do not panic, do not immediately hand over money, and involve the police.
