Five Minors Detained for Alleged Shooting of Teen in Pune's Wadgaon Budruk
In a disturbing incident in Pune, five minor boys were detained by police on Wednesday for allegedly opening fire on a 17-year-old junior college student. The shooting occurred on Tuesday night at Charwad Vasti in the Wadgaon Budruk area, with authorities stating it was the result of a long-standing rivalry between the individuals involved.
Victim Hospitalized but Out of Danger
The victim sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh during the altercation and was promptly admitted to Sassoon General Hospital for medical treatment. Police officials have confirmed that the teenager is now reported to be out of danger and recovering under medical supervision.
Police Investigation and Recovery of Firearm
According to Assistant Inspector Sameer Karpe of the Sinhagad Road police station, the victim and the suspects were well-acquainted and had a history of ongoing conflicts. "We apprehended all five boys on Wednesday and recovered a country-made pistol from one of the detained minors," Karpe stated. During interrogation, one of the minors revealed that the firearm had been supplied by another boy who is currently lodged in a government observation home. Police indicated they plan to question this individual after securing the necessary legal permissions.
Details of the Nighttime Assault
The incident unfolded around 11:45 PM when the victim and a friend were traveling through the area on a motorcycle. The suspects, also on motorcycles, intercepted them and forced them to stop. Police reported that the detained boys issued death threats before physically assaulting the victim and his friend with kicks and punches. The suspects then attacked the boy with sharp weapons and vandalized their motorcycle. During the assault, one of the five suspects pulled out a country-made pistol and fired at the 17-year-old from close range, striking him in the thigh.
Background of the Individuals Involved
Investigations have uncovered that both the victim and the suspects have previous criminal records registered against them. Police noted that the teenagers involved come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with their parents working in various low-income occupations such as:
- Electricians
- Autorickshaw drivers
- Domestic helpers
- Fabrication unit workers
This case highlights ongoing concerns about juvenile delinquency and access to illegal firearms in urban areas, with authorities continuing their probe into the broader network involved in the incident.
