Armed clash over extortion shakes city

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

A violent clash erupted late Sunday night near Jhenda Chowk in Mukundwadi, as an extortion dispute between illegal businesses and criminal factions escalated into a full-blown street battle. Armed gang members fired shots in the air and brandished sharp weapons, looting Rs 10,000. The incident has ignited concerns over law enforcement efficiency. A case has been registered against Vicky Helmet, Mukesh Salve, Kishor Shinde, and Umesh Gawli at Mukundwadi Police Station.

Extortion dispute turns violent

According to the complaint filed by Sunil Dukale, who has prior records linked to illicit gambling and liquor sales, Umesh Gawli demanded Rs 2,000 in extortion on February 23. Dukale’s refusal led to escalating tensions. On March 23, while Dukale, his son, and nephew were playing cards near Ichhamani Hotel, the accused attacked them with machetes, wooden sticks, and sharp weapons before fleeing with Rs 10,000 looted from a scrap shop. Despite the severity of the attack, no arrests had been made by Monday night.

Delays and discrepancies raise questions

The case was registered 12 hours after the attack, at 10.46 am on Monday. What caused the delay?

Locals reported hearing gunshots, yet the FIR only mentions "a loud noise in the dark." Is there an attempt to downplay the shooting?

Following the incident, all illegal materials from the surrounding shops vanished overnight. Who ordered their removal, and why?

Accused’s houses attacked

Hours after the clash, another armed group retaliated, attacking the homes of the accused with sharp weapons and stone pelting. The area remained tense throughout Monday, yet police have not identified those responsible for the counterattack.

How are authorities unaware?

Vicky Helmet and Mukesh Salve, known for extortion and armed robbery in Mukundwadi, allegedly possess an extensive collection of deadly weapons. Social media is flooded with over 25 videos showcasing them wielding weapons, celebrating their acts even after the Sunday attack. In a prior case, they were seen recording a video while handcuffed in court. Despite these blatant displays, police action remains absent.

A case has been registered, and a search for the accused is ongoing. I inspected the crime scene, and we are conducting a thorough investigation to determine if gunfire actually took place.

— Prashant Swami, DCP, Zone 2

(Photos)

Screenshots and videos of the accused brandishing weapons circulate on social media.

Footage captures an armed mob storming the accused’s residence.