In a significant crackdown on urban infrastructure theft, the Wanowrie police in Pune have successfully apprehended four individuals involved in the theft of power backup batteries from critical traffic signal posts across the city. The arrests were made following a swift investigation that led to the recovery of stolen batteries essential for maintaining smooth traffic operations.
Details of the Theft and Arrest
The incident came to light when a company responsible for maintaining the batteries under the Smart City Project approached the Wanowrie police on Tuesday. They lodged a formal complaint reporting the theft of six batteries from various signal posts located in key areas including Wanowrie, Yerawada, Market Yard, and Pune Cantonment. These batteries are vital components installed to ensure uninterrupted power supply to traffic signals, thereby preventing congestion and accidents on Pune's busy roads.
Police Action and Recovery
Acting promptly on the complaint, a dedicated police team comprising sub-inspectors Alfaz Shaikh and Umakant Mahadik launched an investigation. Their efforts were bolstered by a crucial tip-off indicating that four suspects were moving in an autorickshaw near the Race Course area, allegedly with the stolen batteries and seeking potential buyers. The team swiftly traced and intercepted the autorickshaw, conducting a thorough check that confirmed the batteries matched those reported stolen.
As a result, the police arrested the following individuals:
- Deepak Kamble (32), a resident of Hadapsar
- Chand Usman Shaikh (28), also from Hadapsar
- Vikas Mane (36) of Pune Camp
- Ali Mulla Shaikh (27) of Kondhwa
In addition to the arrests, authorities seized the autorickshaw used by the suspects to carry out the crime, further strengthening the case against them.
Value and Impact of the Stolen Items
The police recovered a total of 34 batteries with an estimated value of Rs 68,000. These batteries are not just expensive equipment but are integral to the Smart City Project's initiatives aimed at enhancing urban mobility and safety. Their theft could have led to significant disruptions in traffic management, highlighting the importance of such components in modern city infrastructure.
This arrest underscores the ongoing challenges faced by cities like Pune in protecting public assets and the proactive measures taken by law enforcement to curb such crimes. The Wanowrie police's quick response serves as a deterrent to similar activities, ensuring that vital projects like the Smart City initiative can function without hindrance.
