A wanted criminal with a history of offences was shot and injured by police in Pune on Saturday evening after he allegedly opened fire on a team attempting to arrest him. The incident occurred in the Awhalwadi area near Wagholi.
Police Trap Leads to Exchange of Fire
Acting on specific intelligence about his whereabouts, a special police team from Pune laid a trap to apprehend the accused, identified as Omkar Dilip Bhandare, aged around 25. The team was led by Assistant Police Inspector Ganesh Jagdale and Sub Inspector Ravindra Dhaware, assisted by three constables.
The operation took a dangerous turn around 6 pm on Saturday, December 21, 2025. According to police officials, Omkar, who was hiding in bushes, suddenly fired at the approaching police party using a country-made pistol.
Officer Acts in Self-Defence
In immediate retaliation and acting in self-defence, Sub Inspector Ravindra Dhaware returned fire using his service revolver. The police bullet struck Omkar in the leg, effectively incapacitating him. The swift response ensured that no police personnel sustained any injuries during the confrontation.
The injured accused was quickly rushed to Sassoon General Hospital for medical treatment. Senior police officers from Pune city police visited the spot of the incident for investigation after being informed.
Accused is a Habitual Offender
Deputy Commissioner of Police Somay Munde confirmed that Omkar Bhandare, a resident of Chandan Nagar, is a known habitual offender. He was actively wanted in a criminal case registered at the Chandan Nagar police station. The charges against him include illegal possession of firearms and assault.
Following the gunfight, the police have registered a separate case against Omkar for the serious offence of firing upon police officials who were performing their duty. The investigation into both the old case and the new incident is ongoing.
This event highlights the risks law enforcement officers face while apprehending dangerous criminals. The police action is being viewed as a necessary measure to neutralize an immediate threat.
