Pune, 18 September 2025: Nine members of the dreaded Ravan Gang were arrested in Pimpri-Chinchwad on Wednesday night while preparing to rob a jewellery shop in Chikhali’s Patil Nagar. Acting on a morning tip-off, the Crime Branch laid a trap and detained the suspects before they could carry out the burglary.
During the raid, police seized pistols, koytas (sharp weapons), chilli powder, bamboo sticks, and ropes. The Anti-Gunda Squad, led by DCP (Crime) Dr. Shivaji Pawar, ACP Dr. Vishal Hire, and API Harish Mane, carried out the operation.
Those arrested include Anirudha alias Balya Jadhav (29), Abhishek alias Bakasur Pawar (22), Yash alias Gondya Khandagale (21), Shubham Chavan (30), Pradyuman Javalge (25), Sohan Chandeliya (23), and three minors.
Prime accused Anirudha Jadhav is a known criminal with 10 serious cases across Maharashtra, including a previous MCOCA charge. Several other detained members also have a history of violent offences. DCP Pawar said that a case has been registered and strict legal action will follow.
The Ravan Gang began over a decade ago in the Dehu Road–Nigdi–Akurdi belt before spreading into Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Its first leader, Aniket Jadhav, was killed in 2017 by rival Mahakal Gang members. Though multiple arrests in 2019 had weakened the group, they continued to surface in sporadic crimes.
Since 2022, the gang has shown renewed activity, with social media posts and incidents involving minors reviving its fear factor. Senior police officials suspect that the upcoming local body elections may be driving this resurgence, as gangs often seek influence during politically sensitive periods.