Nashik: The Ahilyanagar police have apprehended five individuals and detained a minor in connection with a series of robberies that occurred on the Samruddhi expressway during the night of May 27. The gang allegedly targeted tanker trucks and private vehicles, making off with cash, fuel, and valuables.
Arrests and Custody
The five accused were presented before a court, which granted the police three days of custody for further interrogation. Authorities are investigating whether the group is linked to other highway robberies in the region.
Details of the Robberies
According to police reports, a group of seven to eight men first intercepted a diesel tanker. They assaulted the driver and siphoned off fuel along with cash exceeding Rs 7,000. Subsequently, the same gang stopped a car carrying a couple, robbing them of cash and jewelry valued at Rs 1.2 lakh. The criminals later targeted another truck, looting cash and diesel worth Rs 18,000.
Investigation and Arrests
Acting under the directives of Superintendent of Police Mummaka Sudarshan, the local crime branch, led by Inspector Kiran Kabadi, initiated a manhunt. The police initially detained two suspects, including a juvenile, from Jalna. During interrogation, they confessed to the crimes and revealed the identities of five other accomplices. Based on their statements, the five additional suspects were arrested on Monday. The arrested individuals further named three other associates involved in the robberies.
Seizures and Ongoing Probe
Law enforcement officials have seized two cars and six mobile phones used in the commission of the crimes. Efforts are ongoing to trace the remaining suspects and verify any connections to similar offenses on the expressway.
