A shocking incident of robbery and assault targeted a senior citizen in Pune, highlighting concerns over street crime in the city. A 75-year-old retired officer of the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) was attacked and robbed of his valuable gold chain.
The Evening Attack in Ramtekdi
The crime occurred around 7:30 pm on Tuesday, December 12, in the Ramtekdi industrial area located in Hadapsar. The elderly victim had visited his daughter's residence in a housing society within the same locality to deliver some groceries. As he was walking back to his own flat, the unfortunate event unfolded.
How the Robbery Unfolded
According to the complaint lodged with the Wanowrie police, four young men intercepted the retired officer. They initially attempted to snatch the gold chain worth approximately Rs 1.5 lakh from his neck. When the senior citizen resisted their attempt, the situation turned violent.
The assailants responded to his resistance by slapping and pushing him forcefully. The push caused the 75-year-old man to fall onto the road. Taking advantage of his vulnerable state, the suspects successfully snatched the gold chain and fled the scene.
Police Investigation and Challenges
Sub-inspector Alfaz Shaikh of the Wanowrie police station is investigating the case. He confirmed that the victim did not sustain any major physical injuries from the assault. However, a significant hurdle in the investigation is the lack of electronic surveillance at the crime spot.
"The spot does not have CCTV surveillance," stated SI Shaikh. He added, "We have taken down the description of the suspects provided by the victim and a hunt for them is on." The police are relying on eyewitness accounts and patrolling efforts to track down the four accused individuals.
The case underscores the vulnerability of senior citizens to street crimes and points to the need for enhanced security measures in public areas, especially those with low surveillance coverage.