Surat Police Apprehends Long-Time Fugitive After 26-Year Manhunt
In a significant breakthrough, the Limbayat police in Surat have successfully arrested a 60-year-old man who was wanted for a heinous rape and robbery case that dates back 26 years. The accused, identified as Sunil Kale, had been evading law enforcement for over two decades, with a reward of Rs 40,000 announced by the Surat police for his capture.
Intensive Surveillance Operation Leads to Arrest
The arrest was made near the Maharashtra–Karnataka border following a meticulous five-day surveillance operation conducted by the police in a forested area. To effectively track Kale, the police team employed strategic tactics, including changing their attire to blend into the environment and avoid detection. This operation culminated in the successful apprehension of the fugitive, bringing an end to his long period of absconding.
Details of the 2003 Crime
Providing insights into the crime, police inspector NK Kamaliya recounted the events of August 6, 2003. "The accused and his accomplices arrived at the complainant's farm with the intent to commit robbery. After looting valuables from the women of the family residing in the farmhouse, Kale proceeded to rape the complainant's daughter. He and his aides also assaulted other female members before fleeing with the stolen items," Kamaliya stated.
Criminal History and Evasion Tactics
Sunil Kale had a history of criminal activities, with involvement in two earlier robbery cases in Surat since 2000. Despite repeated efforts by authorities to locate him, he managed to remain at large, leading the police commissioner to declare a Rs 40,000 reward for his arrest. After the robberies, Kale returned to his native place in Maharashtra, where he frequently changed addresses to evade capture.
During his time on the run, Kale was allegedly involved in three murders in Maharashtra. He served a 10-year prison sentence for one of these murder cases while being out on bail for the others. Upon his release from jail, he went into hiding again for the past six months, continuing his evasion from law enforcement.
Tip-Off and Final Capture
The breakthrough came when the Surat police received a crucial tip-off, enabling them to track Kale near his native village in Sangli district. Acting swiftly on this information, the police team located and arrested him, finally bringing him to justice after years of pursuit. This arrest marks a significant victory for the Surat police in their ongoing efforts to combat crime and ensure safety in the region.
