After Andekar’s Murder, Pune Police Prepares for ‘Tit-for-Tat’ Response to Goons

Reported by Mubarak Ansari & Tikam Shekhawat

Pune, 6th September 2024: In the wake of the recent brutal murder of former NCP corporator Vanraj Andekar in Nana Peth, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has issued a stern warning to criminal elements in the city.

Speaking at a press conference, Kumar made it clear that the police will respond to gangsters and goons in their own language, adopting a ‘tit for tat’ strategy. “The police are preparing to give an ‘answer to a brick with stones’,” the commissioner warned, signalling an uncompromising approach toward organized crime.

The murder of Andekar, son of notorious gangster Suryakant alias Bandu Andekar, has highlighted the increasing problem of hooliganism in Pune, and Commissioner Kumar did not shy away from addressing it. He confirmed that the murder was the result of a premeditated conspiracy rooted in family disputes and financial rivalry. “We will eradicate this bullying, and we are ready to take stringent measures,” Kumar said, stressing that action will be taken not just against those directly involved, but also against anyone aiding the criminals, either overtly or covertly.

Kumar announced that the police would initiate action targeting the organized network behind the murder. He also confirmed that the accused in this case would face charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MOCCA), a law designed to tackle the state’s rising organized crime issue.

So far, police have arrested 15 individuals in connection with Andekar’s murder, including three minors. Kumar acknowledged the severity of the case and noted that efforts were being made to treat the juveniles involved in a manner similar to the adult perpetrators. “Their medical examinations are being conducted, and the reports will be submitted to the court,” he said.

To clamp down on the growing menace of gang-related violence, Pune police have compiled a list of 756 individuals with serious criminal records, including those involved in crimes such as murder, attempted murder, and organized activities under MCOCA and MPDA (Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities Act). The commissioner assured that these criminals would be under constant surveillance, and strict action would follow any further infractions.

The press conference was originally convened to discuss police preparations for the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival, a significant event for the city. However, questions about law and order, particularly in light of recent violent incidents, quickly became the focus. Commissioner Kumar assured the public that police would take a stricter stance on maintaining law and order during the festive season, especially with the rising threat of gang-related crimes.

As Pune grapples with increasing criminal activities, the police’s aggressive approach signals a zero-tolerance policy towards goons and organized crime. With the police determined to meet hooliganism head-on, it remains to be seen how this strategy unfolds in restoring peace in the city.