14-year-old boy kidnapped and set on fire in Dhule over suspicion of stealing tractor light
14-year-old boy kidnapped and set on fire in Dhule over suspicion of stealing tractor light
A 14-year-old boy in Dhule was abducted and set on fire after being accused of stealing a tractor light. Two men have been arrested and the investigation is underway.
Shirpur Taluka, Dhule, | Nov 22, 2025 –:
A horrifying incident from Dhule district has shocked the region after a 14-year-old boy was kidnapped, tortured and set on fire by two men who accused him of stealing a tractor light. The incident took place in the Bhampur farmland area along the Jalod road, close to a brick kiln where the boy was allegedly taken after disappearing from his home between late morning and early afternoon.
According to the complaint filed by his father, the accused—identified as Chintaman Sahebrao Koli, also known as Chintu, and Sachin Sahebrao Koli, known locally as Doctor—forced the boy into a vehicle and drove him to the isolated kiln area. There, they tied him to an iron cart and allegedly lit a fire beneath it, inflicting severe burn injuries. The two reportedly demanded that he confess and return the missing tractor light if he wanted to be freed. The boy was later found in a critical state and rushed to a hospital in Shirpur before being referred to another facility for advanced treatment.
Police in Shirpur registered a case immediately, adding sections related to kidnapping, physical assault and attempted murder, along with provisions under the child protection laws due to the victim’s age. Both suspects have been detained for questioning, and officers are investigating whether more individuals were involved or aware of the incident. They are also reviewing the validity of the theft accusation and the circumstances that led to such a violent attack.
Residents in the area say the region around the brick kiln is sparsely populated and lacks surveillance, creating opportunities for such crimes. Many expressed anger and demanded strict punishment, saying no suspicion could justify such cruelty toward a minor. Local child welfare groups have urged authorities to intervene quickly to support the victim and ensure his long-term safety.
Social workers familiar with rural crime patterns noted that isolated farmland regions often become hotspots for vigilante-style punishment, especially when disputes arise involving property, tools or livestock. In such cases, children can become vulnerable targets, either due to misunderstandings or local power dynamics. They emphasised that stronger oversight and community awareness are necessary to prevent future incidents.
The boy’s medical condition remains serious, and his family has asked for financial assistance and police protection. Doctors are preparing detailed reports that will play a key role in the investigation. Forensic teams are documenting injuries and examining the scene near the kiln to gather evidence, including the iron cart and remnants of the fire.
District officials have been instructed to track the investigation closely and coordinate with child protection services. Police have increased patrols around farmland zones and are reviewing recent theft reports to determine if the accused acted out of suspicion or prior conflict.
The brutality of the attack has intensified calls for stronger action against vigilante behaviour in rural Maharashtra. As the investigation progresses, the focus is now on ensuring that the victim receives ongoing support and that the accused face serious consequences for the assault.
