A senior land records official was brutally attacked and his vehicle was vandalised by a group of assailants on a national highway in Nagpur, sending shockwaves through the local administration. The incident, which highlights concerns over law and order on crucial transport corridors, occurred in the Wela Harishchandra area under the jurisdiction of the Beltarodi police station.
Highway Ambush and Violent Assault
The victim, Prakash Marotrao Dhage (45), who is posted in Bhandara but resides in Sadguru Nagar on Besa Road, was returning to Nagpur in his personal car. According to the police complaint, a white car suddenly blocked his path on the Jabalpur highway. As Dhage slowed down his vehicle, two young men armed with iron rods approached his car.
In a swift and aggressive move, the duo smashed the windows of the official's car. To further disable him, they sprayed a chemical irritant directly onto his face, causing an intense burning sensation. The sudden and violent nature of the attack left the deputy superintendent of land records with little chance to defend himself.
Escape of the Assailants and Police Response
After the attack, a shaken Dhage managed to exit his damaged vehicle and called for help. However, by the time a team from the Beltarodi police station reached the scene, the attackers had fled. The police confirmed that the two youths who carried out the physical assault got back into the white car, which was driven by a third accomplice, and all three escaped.
The injured official was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. He was treated for the effects of the irritant and other minor injuries and was later discharged. Following his medical treatment, Prakash Dhage filed a formal complaint at the Beltarodi police station, leading to the registration of a case of assault and vandalism.
Ongoing Investigation and Manhunt
Nagpur police have launched a comprehensive search operation to identify and apprehend the three suspects involved in this brazen attack. Investigators are examining all available evidence, including details of the white car used by the assailants. The motive behind the targeted attack on a government official remains unclear and is a key focus of the probe.
This incident has raised serious questions about the safety of travellers, especially public servants, on state highways. The police have assured the public that all efforts are being made to solve the case swiftly and bring the perpetrators to justice.
