Pune Police Intensify Search for 150 Accused in Violent Askarwadi Assault
Police authorities in Pune have launched a major manhunt for approximately 150 individuals accused of brutally assaulting 14 men during a Ramzan Iftar gathering at Askarwadi, located near Bopdev Ghat. The violent incident occurred on the evening of March 13, and despite extensive efforts, no arrests have been made so far.
Details of the Violent Attack
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed with the Saswad police, the victims, all residents of Kondhwa, had assembled near a lake at Askarwadi around 7 PM for Iftar. They had just begun opening their food packets when a large group of around 150 men arrived on approximately 100 two-wheelers. The assailants were armed with sticks, sharp weapons, whips, and stones.
Complainant Feroz Sayyed, aged 36, stated that the group immediately started abusing and assaulting the 14 men, leading to a chaotic and violent confrontation. The attack was sudden and unprovoked, leaving the victims traumatized and injured.
Police Investigation and Challenges
Inspector Kumar Kadam of the Saswad police provided an update on the investigation, revealing that three men have been identified as involved in the case. Police teams visited their homes in Askarwadi and adjoining villages, but found that they had fled the area.
"We are trying to trace them," said Inspector Kadam, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to locate the suspects. He also noted that CCTV footage from eateries and other establishments in Askarwadi and nearby villages has been reviewed, but the footage is unclear. "All that we can see in the footage is some men, armed with sticks and whips, on two-wheelers," he explained.
Assurances from Senior Police Officials
Feroz Sayyed mentioned that he and other victims discussed the issue with Superintendent of Police (Pune Rural) Sandeep Singh Gill on Monday. SP Gill assured that stern action would be taken against the assailants, highlighting the commitment of the police department to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the scale of the violence and the large number of accused individuals. Police are continuing their investigation, focusing on gathering more evidence and identifying all those involved in the assault.
