The Surat Crime Branch has successfully apprehended a notorious interstate criminal, ending a prolonged manhunt that spanned multiple states. The arrested individual, identified as Abid Ali, also known as Raju Irani and Rehman, was a resident of Aman Colony in Bhopal's Nishatpura area. He was captured in the Lalgate locality of Surat, where he was hiding to evade arrest.
A Fugitive on the Run for Years
According to police officials, Abid Ali had been underground since 2022, skillfully dodging law enforcement agencies. Police teams from several states had repeatedly visited Bhopal in search of him, but he consistently managed to stay off the radar. His strategy involved frequently changing his locations and using fake identity documents to conceal his true identity.
The accused was a wanted figure for police teams from numerous states and had a habit of fleeing to Surat after committing crimes elsewhere. More than 20 serious criminal cases are registered against him in various jurisdictions. His criminal footprint extends across several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Kolkata, where he is likely to be produced for legal proceedings following his arrest.
Dramatic Escape and Eventual Capture
The arrest comes after a significant incident in Bhopal. On December 28, the Bhopal police conducted a major raid in Aman Colony. During this operation, the police team was attacked with stones. In the ensuing chaos, Raju Irani seized the opportunity to escape. He later made his way to Surat, seeking refuge at his brother-in-law's house.
Acting on specific and credible intelligence inputs, the Surat Crime Branch launched a tracking operation. Their diligent efforts paid off, leading to his successful detention in the Lalgate area. This arrest highlights the coordinated efforts of interstate police forces in tackling organized crime.
Modus Operandi of the Notorious Gang
Police revealed that the gang associated with Raju Irani is known for its highly organized methods. The members typically employ a deceptive tactic to target vulnerable citizens. They often pose as CBI officers or police personnel, wearing safari suits to appear legitimate.
Their primary targets are elderly individuals. The gang members approach their victims by falsely claiming that a routine check is underway or that a robbery has recently occurred in the area. This pretext is used to gain the trust of the elderly before exploiting them. The police have described this group as a significant threat due to its systematic and manipulative approach to crime.
The arrest of Abid Ali marks a crucial breakthrough for law enforcement agencies grappling with his interstate criminal activities. It underscores the challenges police face with fugitives who continuously change hideouts and identities, and it brings relief to the multiple states where he was wanted.
