Pune Rape Case: Accused’s Photo Surfaces; Theft, Assault Cases Come to Light

Pune, Maharashtra (February 26, 2025): A 26-year-old woman was raped inside a Shivshahi bus parked at Swargate ST stand in the early hours of the morning. The incident, which took place around 5:30 a.m., has sent shockwaves across the area.

Police have identified the accused as Dattatray Ramdas Gade. His photograph has surfaced, and a police team visited his house, but he was not present. Police have detained his brother for questioning.

Read Also | Pune Rape Case: CCTV Footage Reveals How Accused Lured Woman Into Parked Shivshahi Bus at Swargate ST Stand

According to police, Gade has a criminal record, with cases of theft and assault registered against him in Pune and Shirur. Multiple teams from the Pune crime branch are searching for him, and eight police teams are currently involved in the manhunt.

How the Incident Unfolded

The woman was traveling from Pune to Phaltan. While waiting at Swargate ST stand, an unidentified man approached her and claimed her bus was parked elsewhere. She refused to believe him at first. However, he gained her trust and led her toward an empty Shivshahi bus.

Despite realising the bus was locked, the accused forced her inside and sexually assaulted her. He then fled the scene.

Survivor Reported the Crime After Reaching Phaltan

After the assault, the woman boarded a bus to Phaltan. While traveling, she called a friend and narrated the incident. Her friend advised her to contact the police. Following his advice, she reached Swargate police station and filed a complaint.

Pune police have intensified their efforts to arrest the accused. The investigation is ongoing.