Pune: The Pune Police have intensified their crackdown on organized crime following a recent incident in Kothrud, where software engineer Devendra Jog was assaulted by members of the notorious Gajanan alias Gajya Marne gang. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has directed authorities to take strict action against the gang under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA).
The police have begun gathering details of the gang members' assets and have sought information on their vehicles from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Commissioner Kumar announced these developments during a press conference on Monday (February 24).
On February 19, in Bhelkenagar, Kothrud, software engineer Rahul Jog was brutally assaulted by members of the Marne gang while riding his two-wheeler. Following the attack, a complaint was filed by Devendra Jog (33), a resident of Mayur Colony, Kothrud. Initially, the police registered the case under minor assault charges. However, after public concern and intervention from senior police officials, stronger action was ordered.
The police arrested three individuals linked to the gang: Om Tirthram Dharmajidnyasu (35), Kiran Kondiba Padwal (31), and Amol Vinayak Tapkir (35).
All three are residents of Shastrinagar, Kothrud. A fourth accomplice, Shrikanth alias Babya Sambhaji Pawar, remains absconding. The accused have a history of serious criminal offenses.
Pune police have launched an extensive crackdown on the Marne gang. Raids were conducted at 74 locations, including Marne’s residence on Paud Road. Officials confirmed that Marne and his associates will be booked under MCOCA, and a thorough investigation is underway, including mobile data analysis and CCTV footage review.
To curb gang-related crimes in Kothrud, Pune Police are encouraging citizens to report any threats or extortion attempts by the Marne gang. A special unit has been set up under Crime Branch Deputy Commissioner Nikhil Pingle to handle complaints. The police assured that complainants' identities would be kept confidential to ensure their safety.
Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar emphasized that criminals willing to reform would not face action, but those who continue disrupting law and order would be dealt with strictly.
