Pune: On the eve of Republic Day, the President’s Police Medals for distinguished service were announced, with Maharashtra featuring prominently on the list.
Among the recipients are Kolhapur Police Range’s DIG Sunil Phulari and six officers from the state’s prison department, recognized for their exemplary dedication to duty and achievements in law enforcement.
DIG Sunil Phulari
DIG Sunil Phulari, responsible for overseeing law enforcement in Kolhapur, Pune, Sangli, Satara, and Solapur districts, has been awarded for his exceptional contributions to maintaining peace and order in the region.
Phulari’s strategic leadership during communal tensions in Kolhapur and Vishalgad, and his proactive approach to handling reservation-related protests, were instrumental in averting crises.
Phulari began his career in Gadchiroli and Chandrapur, addressing challenges in Maoist-dominated areas. Throughout his tenure in cities like Pune, Nagpur, and Nashik, he demonstrated remarkable efficiency in solving serious crimes.
His initiatives include the successful establishment of the Cyber Crime Lab in Pune and the dismantling of a wildlife smuggling network with goods worth ₹45 crore seized under his supervision.
Deputy Superintendent Sunil Tambe
Sunil Tambe, currently serving in the vigilance wing of the prison department, has been recognized for his long-standing commitment and extraordinary achievements. Joining the police force in 1989, Tambe has received over 400 commendations during his career.
Notable cases under Tambe’s leadership include the ₹3,600 crore mephedrone seizure in Kurkumbh Industrial Estate and the arrest of Maoist fugitive Arun Bhelke during his tenure with the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).
Tambe’s work in high-profile investigations such as the Kalyaninagar accident and the Sharad Mohol murder case further cemented his reputation as a diligent and effective officer.
Prison Department Officers Honored
Six officers from the prison department have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to maintaining security and implementing innovative practices.
These include Additional Superintendent Vivek Zende (Kolhapur Central Prison), Deputy Superintendent Sunil Tambe, Constables Ahmed Shamsuddin Maner and Tulshiram Gorve (Sangli District Prison), Constable Ganesh Gaikwad (Yerwada Central Prison), and Prahlad Kudale (Correctional Training Academy).
