Delivery Agent Detained After Air Pistol Found at BJP MLC's Office in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
A delivery agent was detained by police after a bag containing an air pistol was discovered at the Kranti Chowk contact office of a BJP MLC in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, triggering a brief security scare and speculation about a possible threat.
Discovery of Suspicious Bag
The incident unfolded late on Friday night when staff members at the BJP MLC's office noticed an unattended bag. According to sources, around 7pm on Friday, a youth carrying a schoolbag-like backpack had entered the office, which sees a steady flow of visitors. After completing his work, he left the premises but accidentally forgot to take the bag along.
When the matter was brought to the MLC's notice, he reportedly instructed his staff to keep the bag safe, expecting the owner to return. However, when no one came forward to claim it by Saturday, a staff member checked the contents and discovered an object resembling a pistol inside, immediately alerting the police.
Police Response and Investigation
Officers swiftly arrived at the scene, conducted a panchnama (official documentation), and seized the bag for thorough inspection. Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar addressed concerns, stating, "The object found was an air pistol and not a conventional firearm. Such air guns do not require a licence. However, we are verifying the circumstances under which it was brought to the office."
DCP (Zone-I) Pankaj Atulkar provided further details, explaining, "We detained a youth, Ritesh Holkar, who left the bag containing an air pistol at the MLC's office. The preliminary probe revealed that he had purchased it online. At the Kranti Chowk police station, we registered an FIR under BNS section 125 against him."
Ongoing Inquiry and Security Measures
Investigators are currently examining CCTV footage from the office and surrounding areas to piece together the sequence of events. The detained delivery agent is being questioned to ascertain whether there was any specific intent behind bringing the air pistol to the political office or if it was merely an oversight.
Police emphasized that there is no cause for panic, as the item was confirmed to be an air gun, which does not require a licence for possession under current regulations. However, the incident has highlighted security protocols at political offices, prompting authorities to review procedures for handling unattended items and visitor management.
The investigation remains active, with further inquiries underway to determine all aspects of the case, including the delivery agent's background and the exact nature of his visit to the MLC's office. Authorities are also verifying the online purchase details of the air pistol to ensure compliance with relevant laws.
