Pune, 12 September 2025: In a major crackdown on organised crime, Pune police have booked the notorious Andekar gang under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
The gang is accused of spreading fear across the city through a series of violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, and property damage.
The action follows the murder of 19-year-old Ayush Ganesh Komkar, who was shot dead on September 5. Ayush was the son of Ganesh Komkar, an accused in the killing of former corporator Vanraj Andekar. A case was registered at Samarth police station after the shooting.
Gang leader Suryakant alias Bandu Ranoji Andekar, 70, along with seven associates, Yash Patil (19), Amit Patole (19), Tushar Wade (27), Swaraj Wade (23), Vrundavani Wade (40), Aman Yusuf Pathan alias Khan (25), and Sujal Rahul Merugu (20), all residents of Nana Peth, have been arrested and are in police custody. Five other suspects are still absconding.
Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar directed officers to tighten surveillance on repeat offenders to curb organised crime in Pune. Investigators revealed that Andekar repeatedly formed new groups to carry out violent acts such as murders, assaults, and extortion, even after previous preventive actions.
Senior Inspector Umesh Gitte proposed invoking MCOCA, which was approved by Additional Commissioner (West) Rajesh Bansode. The operation was led by Crime Branch officers including Additional Commissioner Pankaj Deshmukh, Deputy Commissioners Nikhil Pingale and Krishikesh Rawale, and Inspectors Umesh Gitte and Chetan More.
