Pune: A 17-year-old boy was allegedly murdered by a group of seven men in Pune's Katraj area on Monday night, police said. The incident sparked protests outside the Bharati Vidyapeeth Police Station, while police paraded some of the arrested accused through the area during heavy rain. The victim's mother was also seen striking the accused with a slipper in the presence of police personnel.

The deceased has been identified as Ganesh Ravindra Malve (17), a resident of Katraj. According to police, Ganesh had gone out with a friend on Monday night to collect a mobile phone when they were allegedly intercepted by a group of seven men who arrived on two motorcycles. Police said the attackers chased Ganesh as he attempted to flee and allegedly assaulted him with sharp weapons and iron rods, inflicting multiple injuries to his head, face and hands. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The complainant, Ganesh Ramdas Chavan, who is also the victim's friend, told police that the attack stemmed from a dispute that took place around three months ago between Ganesh and the sister of one of the accused, identified as Akash Gaikwad. Following the altercation, Akash had allegedly threatened to kill Ganesh.

Following the incident, angry family members and local residents gathered outside the Bharati Vidyapeeth Police Station, demanding the immediate arrest of all those involved and strict action against them.

Police have arrested four accused in connection with the case. During the operation, three of the arrested men were tied to the bonnet of a police vehicle and paraded through the locality amid heavy rain, reportedly to deter criminal activity and reassure the public. During the procession, the victim's mother struck the accused with a slipper in full public view.

A case of murder has been registered against seven persons under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). While four accused have been arrested, three others remain absconding. Police said separate teams have been formed to trace and arrest the remaining suspects, and the investigation is ongoing.