The Chatushrungi police in Pune took swift action late on Sunday night by registering a case against seven individuals. This group includes a recently hired domestic helper. They face serious charges related to a dacoity incident at the bungalow of dismissed IAS probationer Puja Khedkar. The crime occurred in the National Society on Baner Road late on Saturday night.
Police Register Case Suo Motu
Senior police inspector Uttam Bhajnavale from the Chatushrungi police station provided key details. He mentioned that no family member came forward to file an official complaint. As a result, the police decided to register the case on their own initiative. This is known as suo motu action.
The charges filed are extensive and serious. They include sections 310 for dacoity, 316 for criminal breach of trust, and 306 for theft by a servant. Additional sections cover causing hurt by poison, wrongful confinement, and criminal intimidation. All these fall under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Suspects Believed to be from Nepal
Investigators revealed that the domestic help was appointed only a few days before the incident. This helper hails from Nepal. Police suspect that his accomplices also originate from the same country.
Senior inspector Bhajnavale stated, "The Khedkar family had appointed the domestic help merely a few days ago. We only know his first name, which is Hikmatsingh." He added that teams from the Chatushrungi police and the crime branch have been deployed. Their mission is to trace all suspects involved in this dacoity.
Victims Drugged and Hospitalized
The police have not yet confirmed the exact value of the stolen items. This delay occurs because Khedkar's parents have not provided their statements. They are currently undergoing medical treatment in a hospital.
Assistant police inspector Narendra Patil, who is the investigating officer, explained the situation. "We are yet to record the statements of the victims, who were drugged by the accused. They are undergoing treatment in a hospital," he said.
Details of the Crime Scene
The accused executed a well-planned operation. They drugged Khedkar's parents, along with their driver, cook, and the bungalow guard. After incapacitating them, the criminals broke locks on cupboards to steal valuables.
While the dacoits were still inside the house, Puja Khedkar arrived home. The perpetrators tied her hands with a ribbon. They threatened to kill her and forced her to sit in one room.
Khedkar's Brave Response
After the criminals departed, Khedkar managed to free herself. She immediately alerted the police about the incident. However, she refused to lodge a formal complaint until her parents recovered from their ordeal.
Another officer from the Chatushrungi police confirmed this detail. The officer emphasized Khedkar's concern for her parents' well-being over filing paperwork immediately.
The investigation continues as police work to apprehend the suspects and recover the stolen property. The community remains on alert following this brazen crime in a residential area.
