Pune, 7th July 2025: A late-night attempt to steal petrol turned disastrous in Pune’s Ramwadi area when a fire broke out, destroying six motorcycles and triggering panic among residents. The incident occurred around 1 AM on Monday in the Gaothan locality near Nagar Road.
According to the police, the accused, 20-year-old Prathamesh Bajirao Patil, was siphoning petrol from parked bikes when he lit a cigarette. The petrol fumes immediately caught fire, sparking a sudden blaze that rapidly spread to nearby two-wheelers.
As the fire intensified, thick black smoke filled the nearby commercial building. Panic gripped the residents and workers as the smoke spread through staircases and corridors. Emergency services responded quickly, and around 100 people were safely evacuated in a timely rescue operation.
Though the motorcycles were completely gutted, the building itself remained structurally unharmed. Residents and shopkeepers expressed relief and praised the fire brigade for their swift and effective action, which averted a major tragedy.
The Chandan Nagar Police arrested the accused and booked him under IPC Section 436A (mischief by fire or explosive substance) and Section 379 for theft. Officials have reminded citizens of the importance of fire safety and urged vigilance in residential and commercial zones.