In a remarkable display of efficiency, Ambegaon Police and Pune Crime Branch arrested three suspects, including a minor, within 24 hours of a bold robbery involving 40 lakh rupees in cash. The incident, which occurred near Excela Plaza, has left the local community hopeful for justice and safety.
Pune | 18th July, 2025: On July 15, 2025, Abhijit Vishnu Pawar, a steel supplier from Yedshi, Dharashiv, was in Pune to collect payments for materials delivered to local construction businesses. Carrying 40 lakh rupees in cash, Pawar entrusted the bag to his friend Mangesh Dhone as they walked toward Excela Plaza near Babuji Petrol Pump in Ambegaon. As they approached their destination, a black Mahindra Thar screeched to a halt beside them. Two men jumped out, swiftly snatching the cash-filled bag from Dhone. Pawar attempted to intervene, chasing the driver to retrieve the vehicle’s keys, but was knocked down with a forceful punch. The robbers, including the driver, fled toward Navale Bridge with the stolen cash.
Pawar promptly reported the crime to Ambegaon Police Station, leading to the registration of a case under sections 309(6) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Under the leadership of Senior Inspector Sharad Zhine and Inspector Gajanan Chormale, the police launched an immediate investigation. By analyzing CCTV footage and leveraging informant tips, they identified the getaway vehicle, a Mahindra Thar with registration MH 12 WE 0085. Within 24 hours, the police apprehended three suspects: Pradeep Ramdas Doiphode from Bhugaon, Pune; Mangesh Dilip Dhone from Yedshi, Dharashiv; and a juvenile accomplice. Shockingly, investigations revealed that Dhone, Pawar’s trusted friend, had conspired with the robbers, tipping them off about the cash.

The police recovered 9,35,500 rupees in cash, five mobile phones, the Mahindra Thar, and four number plates used in the crime. The arrests took place near Khandoba Temple Road in Bhugaon, showcasing the swift coordination between Ambegaon Police and Crime Branch Unit 2. The operation was guided by senior officials, including Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Joint Commissioner Ranjankumar Sharma, and Deputy Commissioners Sanjay Bansode, Nikhil Pingle, Milind Mohite, and Rahul Aware. The team, comprising officers like Vijay Kumbhar, Anjum Bagwan, and others, worked tirelessly to crack the case.
This rapid response has restored faith in the Pune Police’s ability to tackle crime effectively. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance, as even trusted associates can betray confidence. For now, the recovered cash offers some relief to Pawar, but the community remains on edge, hoping for the capture of any remaining accomplices. The police continue their investigation to ensure all culprits are brought to justice, reinforcing their commitment to public safety.
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