Nashik Police Apprehend Irani Gang Members in Dramatic High-Speed Pursuit
The Nashik city police achieved a significant breakthrough on Sunday by arresting two members of the notorious Irani gang following an intense high-speed chase and physical confrontation near Ozar. The arrested individuals, identified as residents of Bhiwandi in Thane district, were wanted for their involvement in a staggering 57 cheating cases spanning two years, primarily involving impersonation of police officers to defraud elderly citizens of their jewellery, along with an additional case of attacking a police team in Karnataka.
Details of the Arrested Duo and Their Crimes
The police have named the apprehended suspects as Amjadali Baig (47) and Faiyaz Ansari (28). According to official statements, their arrest has led to the resolution of 42 cases within Nashik city, 10 in Nashik rural areas, five in Dhule, and one in Karnataka. This gang had developed a reputation for specifically targeting elderly individuals by posing as police officers, convincing them to surrender their jewellery under false pretenses, and then absconding with the valuable items. The escalating frequency of such incidents over the past two years had become a pressing concern for law enforcement agencies across the region.
The Dramatic Chase and Capture
The pivotal moment occurred on Sunday afternoon when constable Mayur Pawar from the detection branch, during a routine patrol in the Pathardi Phata area, spotted two men on a motorcycle. Their appearance and the vehicle closely matched descriptions and CCTV footage of suspects linked to multiple cheating cases that Pawar had been diligently monitoring. Recognizing the potential match, Pawar immediately alerted senior inspector Jagvendrasinh Rajput and initiated pursuit while additional police teams were mobilized for backup.
Sensing they were under surveillance, the suspects attempted to evade capture by speeding along the Mumbai-Agra Highway toward Dhule, reaching velocities exceeding 100 kilometers per hour. "The detection team intercepted them near Ozar. A scuffle broke out as the suspects tried to flee, but they were overpowered and detained at the scene," recounted constable Pawar, detailing the tense confrontation that ensued.
Additional Charges and Recovery of Stolen Goods
Beyond the cheating cases, the duo was also sought for assaulting a police team from the Gadag-Betageri police station in Karnataka. During the subsequent investigation, authorities managed to recover more than 200 grams of gold, valued at over Rs 30 lakh, which is believed to be part of the stolen jewellery. Police officials have indicated that other accomplices connected to the gang have been identified, and further arrests are anticipated in the near future as the probe continues.
Recognition and Commendation
Commissioner of police Sandeep Karnik extended congratulations to DCP (Zone 2) Kishor Kale and the Ambad police station team, with special praise reserved for constable Pawar. "Constable Pawar had been tracking the criminals for the past two years and finally succeeded in nabbing them. His work was exemplary," stated the police commissioner, highlighting the officer's persistent efforts. The Ambad police will lead the ongoing investigation into the case, aiming to uncover further details and ensure all involved parties are brought to justice.
