In a significant crackdown, the Manjalpur police in Vadodara successfully dismantled a criminal network specializing in stealing expensive copper wires from private companies. The operation, carried out on Thursday, led to the arrest of five individuals linked to a series of thefts plaguing the Makarpura GIDC industrial area over recent weeks.
How the Gang Operated and Was Caught
According to police officials, the gang meticulously targeted firms dealing in metals, with a specific focus on those stocking valuable copper cables. Their modus operandi involved conducting reconnaissance in the Makarpura GIDC zone to identify potential targets. Under the cover of night, they would infiltrate the industrial estate, steal the cables, and use different vehicles to transport the stolen goods before selling them off and dividing the profits.
The breakthrough came after investigators acted on multiple complaints filed by the affected companies. A combination of technological scrutiny and human intelligence proved crucial. Police meticulously scanned CCTV footage from the area and gathered tips that eventually pointed them towards the suspects. "We received specific information that two of the accused were seen near the Ranoli bridge," revealed a police official involved in the case.
The Arrests and Recovery of Stolen Goods
Acting on this lead, the police detained two suspects identified as Divyang Rana and Arvindsingh Sardar. During questioning, the duo confessed to their involvement in the thefts and named their accomplices: Jaimin Shinde, Pratik Solanki, and Mitesh Parmar. The police swiftly moved to apprehend the remaining three accused.
The interrogation proved fruitful as the arrested individuals led the authorities to the stash of stolen material. The police successfully seized copper cables worth more than Rs 3 lakh, marking a major recovery in the case.
Criminal History and Ongoing Investigation
Further investigation into the backgrounds of the accused uncovered a troubling history for one of the key members. Police records indicate that Divyang Rana has at least 11 burglary cases registered against him at various police stations across Vadodara and Anand districts. His criminal past also includes being booked twice under the stringent Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA).
With the gang now in custody, the Manjalpur police are delving deeper to determine if this group is responsible for other similar offences reported in the city. The crackdown has brought relief to the industrial community in Makarpura GIDC, which had been facing repeated security challenges.
