The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) apprehended a man on Friday who was wanted by the Maharashtra Police in connection with a temple theft case that had ignited communal tensions in the Thane district. The accused, identified as Ajay Ramavatar Pasi, was taken into custody from the Parsa Station Road crossing in the Shohratgarh area of Siddharthnagar district.
Details of the Arrest
Pasi, a resident of Kushwahagaon Ward No. 7 in Nepal, had been evading arrest in a case registered at the Narpoli police station in Bhiwandi. The case involves the alleged theft of jewelry adorning a Hanuman temple idol and cash from the temple's donation box. This incident had significantly heightened tensions in the locality, prompting an increased police presence.
Collaborative Investigation
Officials stated that the sensitive nature of the case led the Maharashtra Police to intensify efforts to locate the accused, eventually seeking assistance from the UP STF. Acting on this request, the STF's Gorakhpur field unit launched a targeted intelligence operation under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Dharmesh Kumar Shahi, who led the team.
Authorities are currently working to recover the stolen ornaments and cash. Further questioning will be conducted by the investigating officer in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Police have initiated transit remand proceedings and are expected to take custody of the accused shortly to transport him to Thane for a detailed investigation and further legal action.
