Pune: There is no organized Koyata gang or any syndicate using machetes for crimes in Pune, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the state assembly. However, he acknowledged that some minors, driven by the desire to establish themselves as local gang leaders, have been using machetes to instill fear.
The issue was raised by NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) MLA Bapusaheb Pathare through a starred question, citing incidents in Dhanori-Lohegaon where shops and vehicle windows were vandalized.
Responding to the query, CM Fadnavis clarified, “There is no organized gang, but some juveniles, influenced by a fascination with gangster culture, have been involved in such crimes. However, those manipulating these minors for criminal activities will be treated as the primary offenders and prosecuted accordingly. Any police personnel found complicit will face immediate dismissal.”
He further stated that illegal sales of such weapons from roadside stalls and other locations are being monitored, and strict action will be taken against those involved.
According to official data, Pune has witnessed nine incidents where individuals brandished machetes to disrupt law and order. A total of 19 accused have been arrested, including 13 juveniles. Most of these minors belong to the 15-16 age group. To address this issue, the government has launched the Disha program for conflict-prone juveniles.
To curb crime in Pune, the government is strengthening the city’s CCTV surveillance network. The Chief Minister also pointed out that some minors are being lured into criminal activities through drug addiction. “Certain individuals use children to commit crimes by getting them addicted to narcotics. Foreign nationals involved in drug-related offenses cannot be deported until a verdict is reached. However, once convicted, they will be deported,” he added.
Additionally, the government is exploring legal measures to track offenders using electronic gadgets from the moment a case is registered against them.
