Notorious criminal returns orchestrates burglary

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

A notorious criminal, previously exiled from the city due to a history of violent offences, brazenly returned and orchestrated a daring heist, stealing 20 tolas of gold from a residence in Kabranagar. Acting swiftly, law enforcement apprehended four of his accomplices and recovered 11 tolas of the stolen valuables, while one suspect remains at large.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Ali alias Nippal Khan Sattar Khan (21, Hanumannagar), Azhar alias Lambatya Mohammad Sarwar, Afroz Gulab Shaikh, Shine Ayaz Ahmed, and Sohel Mohammad Sarwar. While Sohel evaded capture, the remaining four are in police custody. Authorities disclosed that the burglary took place at the home of Vijendra Kachru Kharat (46) and his uncle Raju Kharat. The family had stepped out to attend a funeral on March 22, only to return at 4 pm and find their house ransacked. A formal complaint was lodged at Jawaharnagar Police Station, prompting an immediate probe led by Sub-Inspector Prashant Munde.

Criminal past and unanswered questions

Despite being banished due to nine serious offences including theft, burglary, robbery, and dacoity Azhar roamed freely in the city and carried out the heist in broad daylight. His audacious return raises concerns over enforcement lapses. The police have recovered more than half of the stolen gold, which was reportedly in Shine’s possession, but the whereabouts of the remaining 9 tolas remain unknown.

Investigations further revealed that Afroz carries a record of seven criminal cases, while Sohel, still at large, has 15 cases against him, including a murder charge. The incident underscores the persistent challenge of repeat offenders operating with impunity.

Blood clue leads to breakthrough

Ali’s arrest stemmed from a crucial lead while attempting to force open a cupboard, he sustained an injury, leaving behind blood traces at the crime scene. When questioned, officers observed his wounded hand, which raised suspicions. Subsequent verification confirmed his role in the burglary, leading to the gang’s swift capture. Meanwhile, internal discord has surfaced within the police department, with allegations of some officers bypassing their superiors to claim credit for cracking the case. This has reportedly led to tensions at Jawaharnagar Police Station. As the search for the remaining stolen gold and the absconding suspect continues, authorities are tightening surveillance to prevent further criminal activities.