In a significant breakthrough, the Local Crime Branch (LCB) of Rajkot Rural police has cracked down on a notorious criminal network, arresting two key members and identifying seven others. This group, colloquially termed the 'chaddi-baniyan gang', is allegedly responsible for a series of daring robberies and house break-ins across Rajkot city, its surrounding villages, and several other districts in Gujarat.
The 12-Day Sting Operation in Dahod
The police operation culminated after an intense 12-day camp set up in Dahod district. A dedicated team, led by Inspector Vijay Odedara, successfully apprehended the two accused. The arrested individuals have been identified as Subhash alias Sobo alias Shubham Bhabhor (27) and Goro alias Kailash Mohaniya (25).
Rajkot Rural Superintendent of Police Vijaysinh Gurjar informed mediapersons that the probe was initiated jointly by the LCB and Padadhari police following reports of dacoities and house break-ins in Moviya village. Critical CCTV footage analysis from the crime scenes pointed investigators towards suspects hailing from Dahod, setting the stage for the extended operation.
Gang's Modus Operandi and Confessions
During interrogation, Subhash and Goro confessed to their crimes, revealing a calculated pattern. The duo admitted to thefts and attempted thefts at six or seven factories in the Vavdi GIDC area. They also confessed to stealing cash and laptops from factories located in Paddhari.
The gang operated with a distinct methodology to avoid detection. They would first scout for industrial areas on city outskirts, specifically targeting manufacturing units and warehouses that had farmland behind them. Their targets were typically locations with minimal staff presence—only one or two people. Using iron rods to break open locks, they would swiftly commit the crime. In a deliberate move to evade digital tracking, the accused never carried mobile phones during their offences and relied exclusively on public transport for travel.
Criminal Records and Bail Abuse
The police investigation uncovered extensive criminal histories. Subhash Bhabhor has a staggering 13 criminal cases registered against him in jurisdictions including Dahod, Ahmedabad Rural, Rajkot City, Rajkot Rural, and Kheda. Goro Mohaniya has two cases against him in Rajkot City and Dahod.
In a shocking revelation, it was found that the accused, who were out on bail, would attend court hearings for their serious Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organized Crime (GujCTOC) cases and then immediately resume their criminal activities. Notably, in 2024, the GujCTOC Act was invoked against Subhash and four others, including Raju Bariya, Bharat Palas, and Rakesh Palas.
Major Heist and Ongoing Manhunt
The gang's audacity was highlighted in a major incident on the night of December 5. The accused stole a massive sum of Rs 27 lakh in cash along with laptops from a factory in Moviya village. This high-value theft was a key case that propelled the police investigation forward.
While two gang members are now in custody, the Rajkot Rural police have identified seven other associates based on the confessions and evidence gathered. A manhunt is currently underway to apprehend these remaining suspects. The bust of this gang is expected to significantly curb a spate of property crimes that had been troubling industrial areas in and around Rajkot.
