Pune: A distressing incident of extortion and vandalism in the Shivane area of Warje has come to light, where a habitual offender demanded money from business owners and vandalized property. Traders have called for stronger action from the police to curb such rising criminal activities.

The complaint was filed by a laundry business owner at Warje Police Station against the accused, Omkar alias Khandya Waghmare (21), a resident of Ramnagar, Warje.

According to the police, the accused approached the complainant in Shivane's Dangat Patil Nagar, threatening him to pay ₹10,000 immediately, followed by a monthly payment of ₹5,000 to continue operating his business. He threatened to set the shop on fire if the demands were not met.

After verbally and physically assaulting the complainant, the accused caused damage by throwing items out of the shop. He also issued similar threats to another businessman in the area, claiming he would burn down their factory if extortion money was not paid. The accused reportedly stated, "I am not afraid of the police," before fleeing.

Senior Police Inspector Vishwajeet Kaingade visited the scene for further investigation, and efforts are underway to apprehend the accused.

Exiled Criminal Arrested for Threatening Businessman in Hadapsar

Pune: Police in Hadapsar have arrested an exiled criminal for allegedly threatening a businessman with a weapon and demanding extortion money. The accused, identified as Aditya Baban Shinde of Kamthe Wasti, Hadapsar, has a criminal record and was prohibited from entering the area.

The incident occurred on January 11 when Shinde entered the complainant's shop in Tupenagar and demanded extortion. When the businessman refused, the accused brandished a weapon and used abusive language to intimidate him. Despite his exiled status, Shinde created an atmosphere of fear among local residents by openly carrying a weapon.

Following a swift response to the complaint, police arrested Shinde, and further investigations are underway.