Nagpur Police Invokes Stringent MCOCA Against Criminal Gang for Murder and Series of Offenses
In a significant crackdown, the rural police in Nagpur have invoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), 1999, against a four-member criminal gang. The gang, led by Lokesh Dhabre, is implicated in the cold-blooded murder of Vasantha Neware and a series of other criminal activities across the region.
Police Action and Supervision
The decisive action was initiated by the Buti Bori police station under the direct supervision of Superintendent of Police Harssh A Poddar and Additional Superintendent of Police Anil Mhaske. This move underscores the police's commitment to tackling organized crime with the full force of the law.
Details of the Accused Gang Members
The accused individuals have been identified as Lokesh Dhabre (27 years old), Ritik Moongel (18), Brijesh Kumar (25), and Omprakash alias Pintu Devangan (31). All four hail from Chhattisgarh, highlighting the interstate nature of their criminal operations.
Murder Case and Investigation
The case centers on the tragic murder of 48-year-old Vasantha Neware. On January 9, Neware left his home on his motorcycle for work around 9:30 PM but never returned. His son, Abhijit, lodged a missing person complaint after discovering the abandoned bike near a liquor shop.
Investigations confirmed the murder on January 15, leading to the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). During interrogation, Lokesh Dhabre revealed that the gang abducted Neware and took him to Vadgaon Gujar, where they killed him over a dispute linked to alcohol consumption. Accomplices allegedly assisted in disposing of the murder weapon and blood-stained clothes.
Wider Criminal Footprint Uncovered
Further probes uncovered the gang's extensive criminal footprint, with at least nine serious cases registered across various police stations in both Nagpur rural and city areas. Dhabre reportedly recruited members from local areas and neighboring states, indicating a well-organized network.
Application of MCOCA
Following a detailed proposal from the Buti Bori police, which was approved by Special Inspector General of the Nagpur range, Sandeep Patil, MCOCA was applied to the FIR. This act is known for its stringent provisions aimed at curbing organized crime, and its invocation marks a critical step in addressing the gang's activities.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat organized crime and ensure justice for victims like Vasantha Neware.
