Pune Gangland: Crackdown on Criminal Gangs: MCOCA Invoked Against Eleven Gangsters

By India Crime Correspondent

PUNE, 6 May, 2007

In a significant move to curb criminal gang activities within and around the city, Pune police placed eleven gangsters under the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). This bold action is part of a wider strategy aimed at preventive measures against criminal gangs.

New Police Chief Paves Way for Swift and Decisive Action

The year 2007 witnesses the first utilization of MCOCA as a tool against criminal gangs. The implementation coincides with the appointment of the new police chief, Jayant Umranikar, who has prioritized tackling criminal activities head-on.

The police have outlined an extensive plan to extend the crackdown to criminal gangs operating primarily in Zone III, which falls under Pune police jurisdiction.

This zone encompasses Pimpri-Chinchwad, an area that has recently garnered notoriety due to a surge in gang-related homicides and election-related violence.

Stepping Up Measures

The crime branch, led by Additional Commissioner of Police Rajendra Singh, has spearheaded the initiative.

Eleven members of a gang led by notorious criminal Jalindersingh Kalyani, based in Ramtekdi, Hadapsar, have been targeted.

All eleven gangsters, currently incarcerated in Yerwada jail, are subjects of this MCOCA action.

Jalinder Kalyani’s Criminal Background

Jalinder Kalyani, aged 32, faces over 14 serious criminal charges, ranging from murder, robbery, dacoity, house-breaking, to theft.

The MCOCA charges, specifically sections 3 (1) (2) and 3 (2), pertain to the organized operation of gangs for illegal economic gain and active involvement within such groups.

MCOCA Case Registered at Wanowrie Police Station

The legal proceedings have been initiated with a formal MCOCA case registered against the criminals at Wanowrie police station.

The investigation has been entrusted to Assistant Commissioner of Police Ramesh Biwal of the Wanowrie division.

Emphasizing MCOCA’s Role in Crime Prevention

Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime) Anil Kumbhare underscored MCOCA’s significance as a preventive measure.

He mentioned that the invoking of MCOCA is a powerful tool for crime prevention, reflecting the authorities’ determination to curb organized criminal activities.

Anticipated Expansion of MCOCA Application to More Gangs

The police are actively considering additional proposals to subject organized gangs within Zone III to MCOCA actions.

The imminent inclusion of new gangs under the MCOCA purview is expected, illustrating the continuing effort to suppress criminal activities.

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