Nagpur: In a tragic turn of events, the body of Roshan Girhepunje, a Government Railway Police (GRP) constable who had been missing for the past 5-6 days, was discovered hanging from a tree in Wadegaon village near Kuhi in Umred, Nagpur district.

Girhepunje, who was posted in the reader branch of the GRP in Nagpur, was reported missing on December 8. He had left his residence that Sunday, reportedly to go to work, but failed to return home. His last known cell phone tower location was traced to Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, raising concerns about his whereabouts.

The constable’s family lodged a missing person complaint at Ajni Police Station when efforts to contact him proved futile. Described as an amiable individual, Girhepunje’s sudden disappearance left his family and colleagues puzzled, with preliminary speculation suggesting personal or familial issues might have been a factor.

Authorities are now investigating the circumstances leading to his death, with both the GRP and local police working together to uncover further details. This incident has cast a pall of gloom over the law enforcement community in Nagpur.

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Nagpur: The Crime Branch of Nagpur Police uncovered an illegal diesel pump and seized 22,000 litres of low-quality diesel. Two men have been arrested in connection with the illegal operation.

The accused have been identified as Simransingh Satpalsingh (31), a resident of Rani Durgawati Square, and Hitendra Singh Gajendra Singh Rathore (27), a resident of Mahendra Nagar, Teka Nagar. The two had rented a residential plot on Kawtha Road, Khairi, and set up an illegal diesel pump.

According to police, they were buying poor-quality diesel at Rs 68 per litre and selling it to truck drivers for Rs 75 per litre. This fuel was mainly used by trucks manufactured before 2010. The accused had installed pumping machines and a tanker for storing the diesel. The operation was uncovered after the Crime Branch received a tip-off.

Under the leadership of Senior Police Inspector Shubhangi Deshmukh and the guidance of DCP Detection Rahul Maknikar, the Crime Branch raided the location and seized the illegal diesel. The arrests were made by API Gajanan Chambhare, Sandip Chagole, Deepak Chole, Dinesh Dawre, Suil Kuwar, Mangal Jadhav, Vivek Shripad, and other officers. The police are continuing their investigation into the illegal diesel trade.

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Nagpur: In an outrageous incident, a male staffer entered the trial room at Pantaloons Store situated at VR Mall near Medical Square in Nagpur leaving a 16-year old girl ashamed. Despite her protests, the male staffer was adamant. The shocked family, which later approached Imambada Police Station, was in for another shock when the mall’s supervisory staffers did not offer them support in registering a case against the pervert staffer.

According to a report, the teen, who had gone to Pantaloons Store for an outing with her parents, wanted to try on some new clothes at one of the outlets. After picking up an item, the girl went inside the changing room for a trial. Much to her horror, a male staffer barged into the cabin, leaving the teen shocked. When she challenged the intruder, he tried to justify his presence in the trial room by citing some work. Miffed by the indifference, the girl stepped out to alert her parents.

The girl’s father said the store’s managers and others supported the action of the male staffer. Enraged by their brazen indifference, the father vented his ire at the accused trying to defend his actions. “There were no women attendants at the outlet or near the women’s trial room. We want to raise the question how and why a male staffer entered a woman’s place of privacy when it’s clearly declared so by a display board,” the report said.

The family later approached Imambada Police Station, where an offence of sexual harassment through voyeurism was registered against the accused, Sunil Raut, apart from invoking the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

According to DCP Rashmitha Rao, the accused Raut was taken into custody, and a proposal for preventive action was also prepared against him. “We will take up the issue of safety of women and girls in the malls. We will also ensure installation of CCTV cameras in their premises and the deployment of women attendants in sections where women and girls are likely to visit,” said the DCP.

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Nagpur: A case of fraud involving a promise of ₹300 crore has come to light, targeting a Nagpur-based filmmaker. The victim, Amit Parameshwar Dhupe (44), a resident of Radke Layout, MIDC Hingna Road, is the director of 7 Horse Entertainment and a film producer.

According to reports, Dhupe required financing for his upcoming film project and approached the accused, Dilip Pandurang Wankhede, a resident of Dabki Road, Akola. Wankhede assured Dhupe that he could arrange an initial ₹2 crore, followed by up to ₹300 crore in financing through political connections. Under the pretext of a “processing fee,” the accused collected ₹30 lakh from Dhupe.

When Dhupe began following up, the accused started avoiding him, raising suspicions. Realizing he had been defrauded, Dhupe approached Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravindra Singhal, who recognized the seriousness of the case and assigned it to Senior PI Shubhangi Deshmukh of the Crime Branch Unit 2.

The investigation led the team to trace the accused’s location through his mobile phone. Wankhede was arrested at his residence, and a case was subsequently registered at Ambazari Police Station under the supervision of Senior Inspector Vinayak Golhe. Further investigations are underway.

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Nagpur, a city known for its cultural vibrancy, is now witnessing a troubling trend—bouncers overstepping their boundaries and creating chaos, both at public events and nightlife establishments. The recent rise in incidents involving bouncers has raised serious questions about law enforcement and the accountability of those hiring these private security personnel.

A Viral Video Sparks Outrage

The latest controversy erupted after a viral video surfaced showing bouncers at a prominent event in Nagpur wielding sticks and hurling foul language at the crowd. In the video, bouncer can be seen aggressively pushing people aside, their focus entirely on managing security for a VIP performer. This incident has left citizens questioning why the Nagpur Police were not present to handle the situation. If event organizers can afford private bouncers, why not rely on trained police personnel?

The uproar draws parallels to the recent Hyderabad incident involving superstar Allu Arjun, where a large group of bouncers reportedly behaved recklessly, pushing aside police and the public. In response, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand issued a stern warning, holding VIPs accountable for their bouncers’ actions. Should Nagpur Police adopt a similar stance to curb this growing menace?

The Unchecked Power of Bouncers
Bouncers have become a common sight not just at events but also at lounges, nightclubs, and restaurants across Nagpur—many of which are reported to be operating without proper licenses. Complaints about bouncers engaging in scuffles with customers are on the rise, with some establishments even accused of running beyond permissible hours and serving alcohol without licenses.

Recent reports reveal that most of these venues are mere walking distance from police stations, yet the lack of enforcement is glaring. These places have become hubs for illegal activities, with bouncers often acting as enforcers for the clubs’ interests.

Recent Incidents
In the past few months, Nagpur has seen several incidents of bouncer-related violence:
1. Club Altercation: A heated argument between a patron and bouncers at a prominent nightclub turned into a violent scuffle. The patron sustained serious injuries, yet no action was taken against the club.
2. Restaurant Clash: At a popular restaurant-turned-nightclub, bouncers allegedly manhandled a couple over a billing dispute, leading to a police complaint.
3. Illegal Establishments: Many establishments running as makeshift nightclubs have been reported for hosting late-night parties with bouncers physically ejecting customers who raise objections.

Accountability: Who’s Responsible?

If an incident like the one in Hyderabad were to happen in Nagpur, who would bear the responsibility—the performer, the organizer, or the bouncers? This lack of clarity is a matter of grave concern. It is imperative for the Nagpur Police to step in and define clear protocols to prevent future incidents.

A Need for Police Oversight

The unchecked use of bouncers is not just a safety issue but also a challenge to law enforcement. With private security taking over roles traditionally managed by the police, citizens are left wondering about the accountability and transparency of these arrangements. If something goes wrong, can the police simply step aside, or will they hold organizers accountable?

Time for Action
Nagpur Police must take immediate steps to address the issue, including:
– Stricter Monitoring: Conducting regular checks on establishments operating as lounges and nightclubs to ensure compliance with licenses and time limits.
– Clear Protocols: Defining the responsibilities of bouncers and holding VIPs or organizers accountable for their misconduct.
– Public Assurance: Increasing police presence at public events to reduce reliance on private bouncers.

The rising menace of bouncers in Nagpur is not just a law-and-order issue but also a social concern. If left unchecked, it could lead to an erosion of trust in law enforcement and public safety. The ball is now in the Nagpur Police’s court—will they act before the situation spirals further out of control?

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Representational Pics

Nagpur: In a major operation, Nagpur Police uncovered a racket involving counterfeit Apple products and seized fake goods worth over ₹1.5 crore. The crackdown targeted multiple shops in the city, leading to the recovery of duplicate products and legal action against the shop owners.

The first raid was conducted at a shop owned by Naved Ahmed, where fake Apple products worth approximately ₹47 lakh were seized. Following this, police raided Raj Mobile Shop in Sitabuldi, owned by Amit Israni, recovering counterfeit goods valued at ₹10.5 lakh.

At Naganechi Telecom, owned by Kalyan Singh, fake products worth ₹31 lakh were found. From Diya Mobiles, owned by Prajwal Jarudkar, the police seized counterfeit items worth ₹32.5 lakh. Similarly, fake products worth ₹41 lakh were recovered from Shri Ramdev Mobile Accessories, owned by Jeparam Chaudhary, and ₹42 lakh worth of fake Apple products were seized from Chamunda Mobiles, owned by Bhimrao Chaudhary.

The police have initiated legal proceedings against the shop owners and are continuing their investigation into the matter. This operation highlights the prevalence of counterfeit electronic goods in the market and the active efforts of law enforcement to curb such illegal activities.

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Nagpur: Chief Judicial Magistrate U P Kulkarni in Nagpur acquitted Mohan Padwanshi, Rajesh Meshram and others, accused in the stationery scam of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation. Offences under Sections 420, 465, 468, 471 r/w.34 of the IPC had been registered against them with the Sadar police station.

Based on the report lodged by Dr Sanjay Chilkar, HOD, Health Department NMC, offences were registered against contractor Sakode and his family members along with Padwanshi who was working at the post of Upper Grade Clerk in General Administration Department of NMC, Rajesh Meshram, Accounts Officer and others.

The prosecution contended that on December 4, 2021 the Store In-charge in Health Department Prashant Bhatulkar informed the complainant that the accused persons had by fabricating bogus receipts, invoices and bills proceeded to get an amount of Rs. 67.08 lakh sanctioned and disbursed from the NMC. It was alleged that the said documents were forged with fraudulent signatures. The accused persons were arrested and a chargesheet was filed.

Advocate Prakash Naidu, representing the accused, argued that the prosecution had failed to prove that the stock which was allegedly ordered against fabricated bills and invoices reached the store of the NMC. The process of clearance of bills is done on the basis of physical bills/hard copy and not through e-governance, it was argued. It was also pointed out that the allegations of the accused using login ID and password of Dr Chilkar to clear the bills for further processing, were false as Dr Chilkar had admitted that he did not possess any login ID and password.

The prosecution also failed to bring on record the Stock Book Register on the basis of which inference could be drawn as to whether the alleged stock was received by the NMC or not. The IO Pravin Kamble also admitted that despite having seized the Stock Book Register, he had not submitted it along with the chargesheet. Witnesses also admitted that there was no use of E-Governance site and the physical bills submitted were sent to the Store In-Charge who forwarded it to the HOD and later to Accounts Department after approval.

Dr Chilkar, under cross examination, admitted that the procedure of billing was done through physical copies of bills and not through submissions or uploading the bills through E-Governance. The Court proceeded to acquit all the accused persons of the said crime in absence of conclusive proof.

Prosecutor Sangita Goge represented the State. Adv Prakash Naidu, Homesh Chauhan, Mitesh Bais, Surabhi Godbole Naidu and Dhruv Sharma represented the accused persons.

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Nagpur: The usually quiet lanes of Khamla have been shaken by the revelation of a Rs 11 crore credit card scam that left around 150 residents duped. The scam, orchestrated by a group of individuals, including a neighbour of the victims, has raised serious concerns about trust and security in the community.

The modus operandi

The accused devised a meticulously planned scheme that relied on building trust. Posing as financial advisors or individuals offering cashback and other lucrative benefits, the culprits convinced victims to share their credit card details. Over time, these details were misused to carry out fraudulent transactions. The scam, which began in 2022, went unnoticed for months as the perpetrators operated stealthily, making small withdrawals to avoid detection initially.

One of the accused, shockingly, lived among the victims, leveraging their proximity and trust to exploit them further. This insider connection deepened the betrayal felt by the community.

The confession and police inaction

The turning point in the case came when one of the alleged masterminds confessed to the crime on video, detailing how the scam was executed. Despite this damning evidence, there has been no significant action from the police. The victims, many of whom are middle-class individuals who have lost substantial savings, are left questioning the apparent inaction of law enforcement.

Impact on victims

Nagpur Today reporter Avani Arya talked to some of the victims. Victims allege that their repeated pleas to the police have fallen on deaf ears. “We have provided all the evidence, including the video confession, yet the culprits are roaming free,” said one of the affected residents.

The financial and emotional toll on the victims is immense. Many have lost their savings or are now burdened with unexplained debts due to the fraudulent transactions. “We trusted our neighbour, and this betrayal has shattered our sense of community,” said another victim.

The scam has also exposed vulnerabilities in the banking system and the lack of awareness among people regarding the safe handling of credit card details.

 

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The bigger picture

The scam is a stark reminder of the growing menace of financial fraud in India. According to cybercrime experts, fraudsters increasingly exploit people’s lack of digital literacy and their inherent trust in acquaintances.

Police officials, when approached, have claimed that investigations are ongoing. However, their slow response has fuelled suspicions of negligence or possible collusion, leading to public outrage.

Demands for justice

Residents of Khamla are demanding swift action and accountability from the police. Many have approached higher authorities, hoping to expedite the investigation. Some victims are also considering filing a public interest litigation (PIL) to seek judicial intervention in the matter.

Need for vigilance

This incident serves as a wake-up call for citizens to remain vigilant while sharing personal financial details. Cybercrime experts advise:

• Never share credit card information, even with acquaintances.

• Regularly check statements for suspicious transactions.

• Report unauthorized activity to banks immediately.

As the residents of Khamla wait for justice, the Rs 11 crore scam is a sobering reminder of how trust can be exploited and how vital swift action is to deter such crimes.

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Nagpur: The rise in cybercrimes in Nagpur, the State’s second capital, has become a growing concern. As per the data shared by the Cyber Police in the city, the surge in cybercrimes in 2024 is alarming, with a total of Rs 50.06 crore defrauded from citizens from January 1 to December 15 2024. The statistics, compiled from the cases solved by the police, indicate an undeniable rise in the activities of cybercriminals in the region.

144 cases filed at Nagpur Cyber Police Station

Among the cases registered, 144 were lodged at the Nagpur City Cyber Police Station from January 1 to December 15 2024, involving financial frauds amounting to over ₹50 crore (₹50,06,69,000). As part of the investigation, bank accounts holding ₹28.56 crore (₹28,56,61,057) were frozen. The police also apprehended 33 out-of-state offenders during their probe. After a detailed inquiry and legal procedures, ₹3.75 crore (₹3,75,55,999) was successfully refunded to the victims.

13,014 complaints registered in a year

Between January 1 and December 15, a total of 13,014 complaints related to financial frauds, originating from Nagpur, were registered on the ‘National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal’. This reflects a significant increase in the number of people falling victim to cybercrimes, underlining the urgent need for greater vigilance and awareness.

The shocking data released by the Cyber Police reveals that cybercriminals have managed to defraud the citizens from across India of a staggering ₹91.59 crore (₹91,59,77,116). After thorough investigation into the complaints, the police were able to freeze a total of ₹18.41 crore (₹18,41,70,385) from various bank accounts linked to the frauds. However, only ₹2.72 crore (₹2,72,28,942) of the defrauded amount was successfully recovered and returned to the victims, which is barely 5% of the total fraud amount.

759 complaints regarding objectionable social media posts

In addition to financial frauds, the Cyber Police also received 759 complaints related to objectionable posts involving women and children on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, X, and Telegram. The police have promptly acted to delete such harmful content, ensuring the safety of vulnerable users.

Ongoing efforts to curb cybercrime

The Cyber Police in Nagpur continue to work relentlessly to curb the growing threat of cybercriminals. The year-long efforts have been carried out under the guidance of Sanjay Patil, Additional Police Commissioner, Crime, Nagpur City, and Lohit Matani, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Cyber and Zone 1, with support from Amit Dolas, Senior Police Inspector, and Amol Deshmukh, Police Inspector and Cyber Team, using technical expertise and collaboration to tackle the issue.

With these concerted efforts, the police are working towards reducing the menace of cybercrimes in Nagpur, and safeguarding the public from further digital exploitation.

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Nagpur: As part of the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), Nagpur has demonstrated remarkable progress, particularly in the areas of urban safety and Digital education. The city’s advancements, backed by detailed impact assessments by prestigious institutions such as IIM Bangalore, highlighted the tangible benefits that smart technologies and solutions have brought to its citizens. These findings reinforce the crucial role that smart cities like Nagpur are playing in shaping the future of urban India. The IIM Bangalore reports that Nagpur has reported a 14% decline in the overall crime rates after the post-implementation of surveillance measures by Nagpur Smart & Sustainable City Development Corporation Limited (NSSCDCL). Nagpur’s success in this area serves as a model for other cities to enhance urban security and build safer, more inclusive public spaces.

Under SAAR – Sameeksha series of Smart Cities Mission (SCM) launched in Nov 2023 has carried out 50 national level impact assessment studies on Indian smart cities for various themes by twenty-nine (29) premier institutions of India. In this series, a study on “Impact of real-time tracking in incidences of criminal activities in Indian Smart Cities & Quality of Education through Smart Classrooms” was undertaken by Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore.

Crime Reduction through Smart Surveillance Systems:-

One of the standout achievements of Nagpur Smart and Sustainable City Development Corporation Limited (NSSCDCL) is its significant progress in urban safety, particularly in reducing criminal activities. According to an IIM Bangalore impact assessment study, across 93 Smart Cities, over 59,802 CCTV cameras and emergency call boxes have been installed, with a real-time monitoring system through ICCCs has contributed to a safer urban environment for women. Integration of surveillance systems with police operations has enhanced evidence-based policing nationwide.

Nagpur has seen a 14% decline in overall crime rates following the implementation of surveillance measures, including the installation and integration of over 4,000 CCTV cameras and the integration of real-time monitoring systems through the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC). This initiative, which is part of the Smart Cities Mission, has been instrumental in enhancing law enforcement’s ability to prevent and respond to crimes, particularly crimes against women. Over the last five years, this initiative has aided in solving over 7,000 criminal cases, significantly contributing to public safety and the reduction of criminal activity. The study further highlights that women in Nagpur now report a higher sense of safety in public spaces, contributing to their increased confidence in navigating the city. The success of Nagpur’s surveillance systems serves as a model for other cities to enhance urban security, building safer and more inclusive public spaces for all.

Impact on Education through Smart Classrooms and Digital Libraries:-

Nagpur has also made significant strides in improving its educational infrastructure through the introduction of smart classrooms and digital libraries. According to a report by IIM Bangalore, Nagpur has developed 60 classrooms in 6 smart schools across its Nagpur municipal corporation schools, significantly enhancing the quality of education. Additionally school provides educational material in four different languages i.e. Marathi, English, Hindi & Urdu in all six NMC schools.

The national level study concluded that 71 cities have developed 9,433 smart classrooms in 2,398 government schools. Introduction of smart classrooms by SCM has led to a 22% increase in overall enrolment as per the data reported by 19 cities between 2015-16 to 2023-24. These classrooms have also improved student attendance and engagement, particularly in government schools.

In addition to smart classrooms, digital libraries have become a pivotal resource for students, providing access to a wealth of educational materials and helping students prepare for competitive exams. The establishment of these digital libraries has also been crucial in supporting economically weaker students, ensuring they have access to modern educational tools and resources.

In Nagpur the integration of smart cards enhances the user experience, enabling librarians to quickly access students’ borrowing histories with a simple scan, thereby streamlining the borrowing process. Three NMC libraries, developed by Nagpur Smart City, have embraced this innovative approach, featuring dedicated study areas for youngsters, each equipped with computer systems. This combination of digital and physical resources elevates the library experience, making knowledge more accessible and fostering a modern, tech-friendly environment for learning.

A Step Towards Inclusive Urban Development:–

Nagpur Smart City’s emphasis on smart classrooms, digital libraries, and smart surveillance systems exemplifies the city’s commitment to creating an inclusive, safe, and sustainable urban environment. The city’s successful implementation of these solutions not only addresses local challenges but also serves as an example for other cities across India.

SAAR–Sameeksha series:
The Mission launched a platform in 2022, named ‘SAAR’ (Smart Cities & Academia towards Action & Research) to bridge the academia and government to document and research new urban initiatives. Under the SAAR initiative, the Smart Cities Mission has initiated 50 Impact assessment research studies as “Sameeksha Series”. Twenty-nine premier institutions of India have undertaken these 50 Impact Assessment studies which includes – 6 IIMs, 8 IITs, 3 SPAs and 12 specialized research institutes. The Mission offered its data and facilitated on-ground site visits to these institutions, to document the learnings which could be bedrock for future urban development policies.

Brief – Smart Cities Mission:
Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Govt of India on 25 June 2015. The objective of this Mission is to promote cities that provide core infrastructure and give a decent quality of life to its citizens, a clean and sustainable environment and application of ‘Smart’ Solutions.The mission has undertaken multiple transformative and innovative projects undertaken on-ground, making it the most powerful urban experiment in modern India.

As of November 2024, 91% of the projects under SCM have been completed. The cities under SCM have brought forward several unique, innovative and replicable projects/ models to cater to the local needs of residents. With the mission nearing completion, it is imperative that impact assessment and documentation of the unique solutions undertaken.

For further details on the IIM Bangalore Impact Assessment Studies on education and urban safety, please visit:

Download Smart Classroom Impact Report
Download Crime Tracking Impact Report

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Nagpur: Acting swiftly on a report published by Nagpur Today on December 26, the Rana Pratap Nagar Police Station team successfully apprehended one of the accused involved in the Rs 11 crore credit card scam that has shaken the residents of Khamla. Mayur Suresh Nimje, a resident of Rameshwari, was arrested on December 27, while his accomplice, Sachin Harish Shabhuwani, a Khamla resident, remains at large. Police are actively searching for him.

The shocking scam, which came to light in Nagpur Today’s December 26 report titled “Trust betrayed: Rs 11 crore credit card fraud rattles Nagpur’s Khamla residents,” has left around 150 residents in the Khamla area defrauded. The usually peaceful locality was rocked by the revelation that their neighbour was allegedly involved in orchestrating a massive fraud using credit card details. The scam has raised serious concerns about security and trust within the community.

Following the publication of the report, Deputy Commissioner of Police Lohit Matani took immediate action, forming a special team from the Rana Pratap Nagar Police Station to track down the accused. The police team was able to apprehend Mayur Suresh Nimje within hours of the report being published, showcasing the efficiency of the force. The hunt for the second accused, Sachin Harish Shabhuwani, continues, with the authorities determined to bring him to justice.

The investigation is ongoing, with the police working to uncover the full extent of the scam and ensure the remaining victims are compensated. The swift action by the police has brought a sense of relief to the affected residents, who had been left in shock by the breach of trust from those they considered neighbours. Further details will emerge as the probe continues.

The accused devised a meticulously planned scheme that relied on building trust. Posing as financial advisors or individuals offering cashback and other lucrative benefits, the culprits convinced victims to share their credit card details. Over time, these details were misused to carry out fraudulent transactions. The scam, which began in 2022, went unnoticed for months as the perpetrators operated stealthily, making small withdrawals to avoid detection initially.

One of the accused, shockingly, lived among the victims, leveraging their proximity and trust to exploit them further. This insider connection deepened the betrayal felt by the community.

Turning point

The turning point in the case came when one of the alleged masterminds confessed to the crime on video, detailing how the scam was executed. Despite this damning evidence, there has been no significant action from the police. The victims, many of whom are middle-class individuals who have lost substantial savings, are left questioning the apparent inaction of law enforcement.

Impact on victims

Nagpur Today reporter Avani Arya talked to some of the victims. Victims allege that their repeated pleas to the police have fallen on deaf ears. “We have provided all the evidence, including the video confession, yet the culprits are roaming free,” said one of the affected residents.

The financial and emotional toll on the victims is immense. Many have lost their savings or are now burdened with unexplained debts due to the fraudulent transactions. “We trusted our neighbour, and this betrayal has shattered our sense of community,” said another victim.

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Nagpur: In a shocking incident late Sunday night near the bustling Gandhibagh Garden, three bike-borne assailants armed with sharp weapons launched a brutal attack on two brothers, leaving one dead and the other critically injured. Police suspect a family dispute to be the motive behind the attack.

The deceased has been identified as Ravi Rathod, 35, an auto-rickshaw driver from the Pardi area. The injured victim, Ravi’s brother, remains in critical condition at Mayo Hospital.

According to the police, the Rathod brothers had been targeted following an earlier quarrel between two families, during which Ravi had intervened. The attackers, reportedly angered by Ravi’s involvement, ambushed the brothers around 10:55 p.m. near Gandhibagh Garden.

Eyewitnesses reported that the three assailants arrived on separate motorcycles and launched a sudden, coordinated attack using sharp-edged weapons. Caught off guard, the brothers were unable to defend themselves against the onslaught.

Passersby, witnessing the horrifying incident, quickly alerted the nearby Tehsil Police Station, located just 100 meters from the crime scene. Police arrived within minutes and rushed the victims to Mayo Hospital. Unfortunately, Ravi was declared dead on arrival, while his brother is undergoing emergency treatment.

Tehsil Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, identified as Abhishek Rathod and Sonu Rathod, though their whereabouts remain unknown. Investigators are combing through CCTV footage from the area in a bid to track the attackers.

An extensive investigation is underway, and police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or the incident to come forward.

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Nagpur: With the death of Deepak Rajesh Rathod late on Sunday night, the killing at Nagpur’s Gandhibagh turned into a double murder. This takes the murder toll in the city to six in the last week. Murders have become a major issue for the city police, with over 80 reported in the city by November.

Investigations revealed that the two brothers were murdered over a pending dues of Rs 30,000. The police have arrested four people, while one suspect remains at large.

The arrested accused are: Badansingh Ramgopal Rathod (45), Abhishek Badansingh Rathod, Manoj Rathod, and Vivek Rathod (18), all from Chhoti Khadan, Hansapuri. The fifth suspect, Sonu Badansingh Rathod, is absconding.

According to the police, the deceased in the Sunday attack were identified as Ravi Rathod (35) and his elder brother Deepak (40), both residents of Bhavani Nagar, Pardi. Ravi and Deepak were bangle sellers in the Mahal area. Badansingh Rathod owns a wholesale bangle shop on Bhandara Road. Eight months ago, Ravi borrowed Rs 20,000 from Badansingh’s son, Abhishek and promised to buy him a motorcycle, but he failed to deliver the vehicle. Three months ago, Ravi purchased a set of bangles worth Rs 10,000 from Badansingh’s shop, but the bill remained unpaid.

As Ravi stopped responding to requests for the money, the Rathod family became increasingly angry. This led to continuous arguments between Ravi and the Rathods. On Sunday night, Badansingh, along with his brother-in-law Manoj and nephew Vivek, confronted Ravi near a garden in Gandhibagh.

Abhishek and his brother Sonu soon arrived at the scene and attacked Ravi with sharp weapons. When Deepak arrived with his friend Shubham Shekhar Baraskar (32) and tried to intervene, he too was attacked and severely injured. Shubham was also hurt during the incident.

Police said Badansingh is the maternal uncle of the deceased. The incident took place in the busy marketplace and in full public view. Videos of the incident have also gone viral on social media.

Meanwhile, Tehsil police rushed the injured brothers to hospital, but they both died. Police have registered a case under Sections 103(a) and 109(3)(5) of the BNS and have arrested the accused. The investigation is still ongoing.

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Nagpur: In a shocking incident from Nagpur, a 24-year-old engineering student has been accused of murdering his parents after repeated disputes over his academic failures and career direction. The crime occurred in the Kapil Nagar area and has left the local community in shock.

The accused, Utkarsh Dakhole, confessed to killing his mother, Aruna Dakhole, and father, Liladhar Dakhole, in their home on December 26. Investigations revealed that Utkarsh, who had been failing his engineering exams for six years, was under immense pressure from his parents to abandon his studies and take up farming.

Unable to bear the criticism and frequent arguments, Utkarsh allegedly strangled his mother while she was grading papers and later stabbed his father when he returned home and witnessed the scene.

– On December 25, Utkarsh’s father reportedly scolded and physically reprimanded him for his continued academic failures. His mother packed his belongings, urging him to move on from engineering and focus on farming.
– The next day, consumed by anger, Utkarsh executed his plan. After the murders, he locked the house and misled his sister, Sejal, a second-year BAMS student, by claiming their parents had gone to Bangalore for meditation.

The crime came to light when relatives visited the house and noticed a foul odor. Upon alerting the police, the gruesome double murder was uncovered.

Liladhar Dakhole worked as a technician at Koradi Power Plant, while Aruna Dakhole was a music teacher. The family, including their two children, Utkarsh and Sejal, appeared to lead a normal life. However, Utkarsh’s repeated failures in his engineering course and the resulting tensions with his parents culminated in this tragic incident.

Authorities are investigating whether Utkarsh acted alone or had accomplices. The accused’s confession has provided critical details, but further interrogation and forensic analysis are ongoing.

The case has sent shockwaves across Nagpur, with residents expressing disbelief and sorrow over the incident. The tragedy highlights the pressures faced by students and the devastating consequences of unresolved family disputes.

Police are continuing their investigation and have assured strict action based on the findings.

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Nagpur: Maharashtra’s Nagpur police intercepted two individuals carrying ₹41 lakh in cash during a routine vehicle check on New Year’s Eve. The cash was discovered in the storage compartment of a scooter without a license plate, leaving authorities stunned. The duo was unable to provide a valid explanation for the money, raising suspicions of its connection to illegal activities, including hawala transactions.

The incident occurred near Shivaji Chowk under the jurisdiction of Kotwali Police Station. As part of heightened security measures for New Year’s celebrations, police were conducting vehicle checks on December 31. They stopped the scooter due to its missing license plate and conducted a search.

On inspecting the vehicle, police found ₹41 lakh in cash hidden in the scooter’s compartment. When questioned, the two men failed to provide a valid account of the money’s source, prompting the police to suspect it might be linked to hawala operations.

The police immediately informed the Income Tax Department about the seizure. A case has been registered at the Tehsil Police Station, and further investigations are underway to trace the origin and intended use of the cash.

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Nagpur: In a shocking incident in Nagpur’s Khaparkheda, a broad daylight shooting resulted in the death of one individual and left two others critically injured. As soon as the incident was reported, teams from the Crime Branch and Khaparkheda Police rushed to the scene. The injured were immediately taken to a hospital for treatment.

The deceased has been identified as Pawan Dheeraj Hiranwar, a resident of Kachhipura, Nagpur. He was reportedly involved in criminal activities and had several cases registered against him, including murder. Preliminary investigations suggest the killing may be linked to an old rivalry.

The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after a double homicide in the area, raising concerns about the rising violence in the region. According to reports, Pawan was traveling with two friends in a car through the Babulkheda area within the Khaparkheda Police jurisdiction. Suddenly, a group of 5-6 individuals on motorbikes intercepted the car and opened fire. Pawan died on the spot, while the other two occupants sustained severe injuries.

Hearing the gunshots, locals working in nearby fields rushed to the scene and informed the police. Following the attack, the assailants fled. Police and Crime Branch teams arrived promptly, secured the area, and sent Pawan’s body for postmortem while admitting the injured to a hospital.

Initial investigations indicate that an old feud might have led to the murder. Police and Crime Branch officials are actively investigating the case to track down the culprits.

The post Nagpur: Broad Daylight Shooting in Khaparkheda Claims One Life, Two Injured appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News.

Nagpur: A viral video from a hotel in Nagpur has ignited widespread concern over privacy violations and the misuse of social media. The footage, filmed from outside the hotel, captures a couple in a private moment behind partially closed curtains. Although the couple is not directly visible, the act of recording and sharing the video online has triggered outrage and legal warnings.

Nagpur Police have issued a stern reminder that recording and distributing such content is a criminal offense. Officials stated that if the woman in the video lodges a complaint, those responsible could face severe legal consequences under laws protecting women’s modesty and provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act.

The hotel owner is also considering legal action, including filing a defamation case against individuals involved in creating and disseminating the video. Authorities have stressed the importance of using social media responsibly, urging people to refrain from sharing content that violates others’ privacy or dignity.

This incident underscores the growing need for ethical practices online, especially regarding sensitive content. It serves as a stark reminder to respect personal boundaries and uphold the legal and moral principles that protect individuals from harm in the digital age.

The police and hotel management continue to investigate the matter, sending a strong message about the consequences of privacy violations and misuse of technology.

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Nagpur: In a swift action to uphold police accountability, Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravinder Singhal suspended two constables from the Sitabuldi Police Station following allegations of assault and extortion. The accused constables, Pravin Wakode and Samadhan Kamble, reportedly demanded ₹5 lakh from a restaurant owner during a New Year’s Eve incident at Farzi Café, West High Court Road.

The controversy began at a party hosted by Yash Dubey, owner of Farzi Café. An altercation involving another restaurant owner, Cyrus Cheng, and a woman escalated into an assault complaint. Initially, Lady PSI Kavita Jagtap was assigned to investigate. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when constable Wakode allegedly stole the case diary and took over the case without authorization.

On January 1, Wakode and Kamble reportedly detained Cheng at the police station, subjected him to physical assault, and demanded ₹5 lakh to drop the charges. The unauthorized seizure of the case diary led to chaos, and a duplicate diary was allegedly fabricated to cover up their actions.

The misconduct came to light when Cheng alerted senior officials. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rahul Madne promptly ordered the Sitabuldi ACP to probe the incident. The enquiry corroborated the allegations against the constables. This resulted in their immediate suspension, with further charges of extortion and theft under consideration.

Sources claim that the two constables were intoxicated while on duty and behaved like “hardened criminals.” The scandal has rattled the police department, raising concerns over systemic issues like extortion and corruption. Allegations of favouritism have also emerged, with claims that a senior officer tried to shield the accused.

DCP Madne assured that accountability would be enforced and the investigation expanded to examine the role of other officers in the incident. Senior officials are monitoring the case closely, and further action is expected.

The Farzi Café incident has highlighted the urgent need for reforms within the force, particularly in addressing corruption and ensuring the integrity of investigations.

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Nagpur – A sex racket operating under the guise of a massage center was uncovered by the Social Security Branch (SSB) of the Crime Branch on Saturday. The raid, led by Police Inspector Kavita Isarkar, was conducted at Ganga Spa, situated on the first floor of Nitin Bichayat Kendra, Somalwada Square, Wardha Road.

The operation led to the arrest of Naveen Bhagwan Singh (37) and his wife Vandana alias Shruti Singh (28), both residents of Amar Nagar, Jagtap Layout, MIDC, Nagpur. According to police reports, the couple allegedly lured women into prostitution with promises of high earnings.

During the raid, four women forced into the racket were rescued. Police also seized items worth ₹58,090 from the premises.

The accused have been booked under Sections 143 and 3(5) of the BNS Act and Sections 4, 5, and 7 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. Authorities have stated that further investigations are ongoing to identify additional links to the illegal operation.

The police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help curb such unlawful practices in the city.

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Nagpur: In a significant ruling, the Honourable DJ-8 and Additional Sessions Judge Shri R.R. Bhosale acquitted Umesh Daswani, a mobile merchant from Wardha, in a case involving allegations of rape under the pretext of marriage and criminal intimidation. The charges, registered under Sections 376(2)(N) and 504 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), were found unproven due to inconsistencies in evidence and significant contradictions in the prosecution’s case.

Case Background
The complainant, a resident of Nandanvan, alleged that between 2016 and 2019, Daswani developed a relationship with her and engaged in repeated sexual relations under the false promise of marriage. She claimed these encounters took place at Perfect Lodge on Kanhan-Ramtek Road. In 2019, when she insisted on marriage, she discovered that Daswani was already married with two children. Feeling deceived, she filed a complaint at Kanhan police station on July 19, 2019. A chargesheet was subsequently filed against Daswani.

Defense Arguments
Advocates Kamal Satuja and Kailash Dodani, representing Daswani, argued that the allegations were baseless and the case did not meet the legal threshold for rape under the pretext of marriage. They highlighted the following points:
– The complainant’s evidence was inconsistent with her initial complaint, weakening her credibility.
– The lodge owner, a key prosecution witness, admitted during cross-examination that the complainant was aware of Daswani’s marital status and even brought gifts for his son. This supported the defense’s claim that the relationship was consensual.
– Material witnesses, such as mutual friends of the accused and complainant, were not examined by the prosecution.
– There was an unexplained 30-day delay in filing the First Information Report (FIR).

The defense successfully argued that these factors, combined with contradictions and omissions in the evidence, created reasonable doubt about the accused’s guilt.

Prosecution Stand
Assistant Public Prosecutor Deepika Gawli contended that the accused had been identified by both the complainant and the lodge owner, who confirmed that Daswani frequently booked rooms at the lodge for the complainant and himself. She argued that these actions substantiated the allegations and warranted a conviction.

Court’s Verdict
After reviewing the evidence and arguments from both sides, Judge R.R. Bhosale concluded that the prosecution failed to establish Daswani’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The court noted that the complainant’s testimony lacked consistency and corroboration, and the defense had effectively demonstrated that the relationship was consensual.

The court acquitted Umesh Daswani, emphasizing the importance of credible and consistent evidence in criminal cases. Advocates Kamal Satuja and Kailash Dodani represented the accused, while Assistant Public Prosecutor Deepika Gawli appeared for the prosecution.

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