Pune: In a shocking incident late Saturday night, dismissed IAS probationer Puja Khedkar reported a bizarre dacoity at her bungalow in the National Society on Baner Road, Aundh, Pune. The Chatushrungi police have registered a case against seven people, including a recently hired domestic worker, on charges of criminal breach of trust, dacoity, and related offences.
Alleged Drugging of Family and Staff
According to police, the accused allegedly sedated Khedkar’s parents and household staff before fleeing with valuables, including mobile phones. Senior Inspector Uttam Bhajnavale of Chatushrungi police said the domestic help, identified only by the first name Hikmatsingh, had been appointed just a few days ago. The police suspect his accomplices may also be from Nepal.
The domestic worker reportedly drugged Khedkar’s parents, driver, cook, and bungalow guard, then stole items from cupboards after breaking locks. Puja Khedkar arrived at her bungalow while the crime was underway. The accused tied her hands with a ribbon, threatened to kill her, and forced her to sit in one of the rooms.
Police Action and Investigation
Inspector Bhajnavale confirmed that no formal complaint was lodged by the Khedkar family initially. The police suo motu registered the case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 310: Dacoity
- Section 316: Criminal breach of trust
- Section 306: Theft by clerk or servant
- Section 123: Causing hurt by poison with intent
- Section 127: Wrongful confinement
- Section 351: Criminal intimidation
Investigating Officer Narendra Patil stated that the victims are currently undergoing medical treatment. Their statements are yet to be recorded, and the exact value of the stolen items remains unconfirmed.
Steps Taken by Police
Police teams from Chatushrungi station and the crime branch have been deployed to trace the suspects. Officers confirmed that the domestic help was newly recruited and had limited acquaintance with the family, raising suspicions about the planning and involvement of accomplices.
Khedkar’s Response
Despite the trauma, Puja Khedkar managed to free herself after the criminals left and alerted the police. She reportedly refused to lodge a formal complaint until her parents were recovered, highlighting her concern for her family’s safety.
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