Crime – Woman Abducted in Pune, District-Wide Manhunt Underway
Crime – A 21-year-old woman was allegedly abducted in Pune district, prompting an extensive police search operation and public protests demanding swift action.
A young woman was reportedly kidnapped in Pune district while she was travelling with her family, leading to heightened tension in the area and a coordinated police response. Officials confirmed that a formal case has been registered and a large-scale search is currently in progress to trace the suspects.
Incident Reported at Bhigwan Police Station
According to senior officers from Pune Rural Police, the incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Bhigwan Police Station. The complaint was lodged late Tuesday night, and a kidnapping case was immediately registered under relevant sections of the law.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Ganesh Biradar stated that the 21-year-old was with her mother and brother at the time of the incident. The family members were travelling together when two men allegedly intercepted them on a motorcycle.
Suspects Identified by Police
Police have identified the two accused as Zahir Haroon Sheikh and Ayaan Haroon Sheikh. As per preliminary findings shared by investigators, the suspects reportedly approached the family, halted their motorcycle, and attacked the woman’s mother and brother by throwing red chutney into their eyes.
The sudden assault temporarily impaired the vision of the two family members, allowing the accused to forcibly take the young woman away from the scene. Authorities have not disclosed further operational details to avoid compromising the ongoing investigation.
District-Wide Nakabandi and Surveillance Measures
In response to the incident, Pune Rural Police imposed a district-wide nakabandi, setting up checkpoints and increasing vehicle inspections across key routes. Surveillance at toll plazas and strategic entry and exit points has been strengthened to prevent the suspects from fleeing the region.
Multiple police teams have been formed to conduct search operations in surrounding areas. Officers are reviewing available CCTV footage and gathering technical evidence to track the movement of the accused. Officials indicated that all possible leads are being pursued to ensure swift action.
Public Protest on Pune-Solapur Highway
The abduction triggered strong reactions from local residents. On Tuesday night, groups of people gathered on the Pune-Solapur Highway, demanding immediate arrests and enhanced safety measures. The demonstration briefly disrupted traffic as protestors called for decisive action from law enforcement authorities.
Police personnel were deployed at the protest site to maintain order and engage with community representatives. Authorities appealed to citizens to remain calm while assuring that intensive efforts are underway to locate the woman and apprehend those responsible.
Ongoing Investigation
Senior officials have confirmed that the investigation remains active and is being closely monitored. Search operations are continuing across the district, and security has been tightened as a precautionary measure.
Police sources indicated that updates will be shared once significant progress is made. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have urged the public to cooperate and report any relevant information that could assist in tracing the suspects.
The incident has once again raised concerns about public safety, particularly for women travelling in semi-urban and rural areas. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring accountability and restoring a sense of security within the community as the search continues.