Pune: In a series of decisive actions, Pune Rural Police have cracked down on illegal gambling and drug trafficking in Lonavala, resulting in the arrest of 16 individuals and the seizure of contraband worth ₹5.83 lakh. The operations, led by Assistant Police Superintendent Satyasai Karthik, targeted illegal gambling activities and narcotics distribution networks.

Acting on a tip-off, police raided Joshwood Bungalow in Tungarli, Lonavala, where 13 individuals were caught gambling. The raid, led by Assistant Police Superintendent Satyasai Karthik, resulted in the seizure of gambling materials and ₹4,08,450 in cash. A case was also registered against the bungalow owner for facilitating illegal gambling.

Drug Traffickers Intercepted Near Varsoli Toll Plaza

In a separate operation, authorities received intelligence that two individuals were transporting narcotics from Sambhajinagar to Mumbai on a motorcycle. A checkpoint was set up at Varsoli Toll Plaza, where police apprehended the suspects at 5:00 AM.

The accused, Akshay Gopinath Jadhav (25) and Pralhad Asaram Jadhav (34), were found carrying 15 kg of wet cannabis worth ₹60,512. Police also seized their motorcycle, valued at ₹1 lakh.

In a third raid, police arrested Taban Zair Pathan (28) for selling mephedrone powder in Lonavala. Authorities recovered 3.62 grams of the drug, valued at ₹15,000.

These operations were conducted under the supervision of Pune Rural Police Superintendent Pankaj Deshmukh and Additional Superintendent Ramesh Chopde. The Lonavala Sub-Division team, led by Assistant Police Superintendent Satyasai Karthik, included Assistant Police Inspector Santosh Jadhav and constables Nitesh (Bunty) Kawade, Ankush Nayakude, Datta Shinde, Ankush Pawar, Amol Taware, and Pardhi.