Pune, Maharashtra – In a development that has brought a measure of relief to a city gripped by shock and outrage, Pune police have arrested a man accused of raping a 26-year-old woman inside a bus at the Swargate bus station. The arrest of Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, a 37-year-old with a prior criminal record, followed an extensive, multi-day manhunt that spanned the city and its surrounding areas.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, sent shockwaves through Pune, particularly due to its location within the bustling Swargate bus depot, one of the largest in Maharashtra, and its proximity to a police station. The victim, a working woman, was waiting to board a bus to her hometown in Satara district when she was approached by the accused.
Details of the Incident and Manhunt
According to police reports, Gade approached the woman, deceiving her by claiming that her bus was located at a different platform. He then led her to an empty Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) Shivshahi bus parked within the depot, where the assault took place. Following the heinous act, the accused fled the scene.
The Pune police immediately launched a large-scale operation to apprehend the suspect. Recognizing the severity of the crime and the public concern it generated, authorities deployed significant resources, including:
- Multiple Police Teams: Thirteen teams, comprising officers from the Crime Branch and the Swargate Police Station, were formed to conduct the search.
- Technological Assistance: Drones and sniffer dogs were utilized to track the suspect’s movements, particularly in areas where he was suspected to be hiding.
- Public Appeal: The police released a photograph of the accused and announced a reward of ₹1 lakh for information leading to his arrest.
The manhunt led investigators to Shirur Tehsil, where Gade was eventually apprehended. Information obtained by police, indicated that Gade had visited a relatives home in shirur, and that while there, he had indicated he had made a mistake, and had thought about surrendering. That relative then informed the police.
Accused’s Criminal History and Investigation Details
Investigations revealed that Gade has a history of criminal activity, with multiple cases of theft, robbery, and chain-snatching registered against him in Pune and the neighboring Ahilyanagar district. He had been out on bail since 2019.
Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar addressed the media, providing updates on the investigation. He stated that a primary medical report indicated a ligature mark on the accused’s neck, raising suspicions of a possible suicide attempt. Further medical examinations are being conducted. He also confirmed that the accused was brought to Pune, and would be presented to the court.
The swift action of the Pune police in apprehending the suspect has been commended by many, although the incident has also sparked renewed calls for increased security measures at public transportation hubs.
Public Reaction and Calls for Action
The incident has ignited public outrage and prompted calls for stricter measures to ensure the safety of women. Concerns have been raised about the security protocols at the Swargate bus station, and there are demands for increased police presence and improved surveillance systems.
Political leaders have also weighed in, with many condemning the crime and calling for swift and stringent legal action against the accused. There have been calls for the Maharashtra state government to take a strong stance on the issue, and ensure that such crimes are dealt with with the full force of the law.
The incident has also prompted discussions about the broader issue of women’s safety in public spaces, and the need for greater societal awareness and sensitivity.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of women, and the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures.