Bhandara Police Invoke MCOCA Against Notorious Gang for Double Murder

Strategic Insights -

Bhandara police in Maharashtra, India, have invoked the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against four members of the notorious Bairagiwada gang for the brutal double murder of Wasim Khan and Shashank Gajbhiye on August 8. The victims were stabbed to death in a turf war over gang domination, sparking a deadly rivalry that led to their killings in full public view. The police action underscores the district's commitment to dismantling organised crime.

Key Takeaways:

  • Four members of the Bairagiwada gang, Sahil Shakir Sheikh, Faizan Shakir Sheikh, Pritam Vilas Meshram, and Ayush Munna Dahiwanle, have been charged under MCOCA for the double murder of Wasim Khan and Shashank Gajbhiye on August 8.
  • The victims were stabbed to death in a turf war over gang domination, with Sahil and Faizan leading the Bairagiwada gang, which has a history of serious crimes including attempted murder, kidnapping, extortion, and assaults on government officials.
  • The gang's criminal activities persisted despite previous preventive measures, often resumed after securing bail, and their network terrorized Bhandara district.
  • The police operation was guided by Bhandara SP Noorul Hasan, additional SP Nilesh More, police inspector Nitin Kumar Chincholkar, and senior inspector Ulhas Bhusari.
  • The police also took action against 1,078 individuals in various cases across the district, including 57 deportations and 11 under the MPDA.

Statistics:

  • 1,078 individuals were taken action against in various cases across the district.
  • 57 deportations were made as part of the police operation.
  • 11 cases were filed under the MPD Act.
  • The victims, Wasim Khan (36) and Shashank Gajbhiye (25), were stabbed to death with sharp weapons.
  • Sahil Shakir Sheikh (23) and Faizan Shakir Sheikh (25) led the Bairagiwada gang.
  • The gang has a history of serious crimes including attempted murder, kidnapping, extortion, and assaults on government officials.
  • The police operation was approved by Special Inspector General of Police, Nagpur, Sandip Patil on September 4.

Sources:

  • Bhandara police press release.
  • Special Inspector General of Police, Nagpur, Sandip Patil's approval.
  • Bhandara police operation records.
  • Court records of Sahil Shakir Sheikh, Faizan Shakir Sheikh, Pritam Vilas Meshram, and Ayush Munna Dahiwanle's previous cases.