Pune, 14 March 2026: Police have arrested two members of the notorious ‘Tap-Tap Gang’, an interstate criminal group known for targeting motorists at traffic signals. The gang used a deceptive tactic in which they would knock on a car window and claim that the vehicle had been hit, forcing drivers to lower their windows.
Once the driver rolled down the window to check the alleged collision, the accused would quickly steal valuables such as mobile phones and other belongings from inside the vehicle. Several motorists in the city had reportedly fallen victim to this method at busy traffic signals.
The arrested accused have been identified as Ravi Kohli and Afzal Abbasi. During interrogation, the duo confessed to committing multiple thefts in different parts of Pune, including areas under the Alankar, Viman Nagar and Faraskhana police stations.
According to police, the gang specifically targeted crowded signals and important junctions across Pune where vehicles slow down or stop, making it easier to approach drivers unnoticed.
The Crime Branch said that the accused were identified after officers examined several CCTV camera recordings from different locations in the city. Based on the footage and technical analysis, the suspects were traced and taken into custody.
Police have also seized stolen items from the accused and are investigating whether more members of the gang are involved in similar crimes across the city. Further investigation in the case is currently underway.
