Nagpur: In a major breakthrough, Nagpur City Police’s Anti-Vehicle Theft Squad under the Crime Branch has successfully cracked 12 vehicle theft cases and recovered 13 stolen two-wheelers worth ₹6.5 lakh. The investigation led to the arrest of a 35-year-old accused, while his two accomplices — including a juvenile in conflict with law — remain on the run.

The action stems from a complaint filed by Ramesh Donarkar (56), a resident of Shivanakar Nagar, who had parked his Honda Activa (MH 49 AN 5587) outside Dhansons Lawn, Wardhaman Nagar, on October 7. When he returned, the vehicle was missing. A case under Section 379 of the IPC was registered at Lakadganj Police Station.

During a parallel probe, officers of the Anti-Vehicle Theft Squad were conducting routine checks on November 12 when they apprehended a suspect identified as Rishabh Shyam Asopa, a resident of Shanti Palace, Lakadganj, near an OYO hotel in Dighori. Upon interrogation, Asopa admitted to stealing the Activa along with his accomplices Ritik Shyamsunder Asopa and a juvenile. Further interrogation revealed their involvement in 12 vehicle theft cases registered across police stations in Lakadganj (2), Tehsil (2), Dhantoli (2), and one each under Sitabuldi, Kalamna, Bajaj Nagar, Nandanvan, Imamwada, and Jaripatka limits.

Police have seized 13 two-wheelers, including 12 stolen motorcycles and one Activa, collectively valued at ₹6.5 lakh. The recovered vehicles and the accused have been handed over to Lakadganj Police for further legal proceedings. A hunt for the absconding accomplices is underway.

The operation was conducted under the guidance of Addl CP (Crime) Vasant Paradeshi, DCP (Detection) Rahul Makanikar, and ACP (Crime Branch) Abhijit Patil. The team included PI Sudhir Borkute, PSI Vivek Zingre, API Deepak Rithe, constables Vilas Kokate, Shambusingh Kirar, Sachin Badiye, Pankaj Hedaoo, Kishor Somkunwar, Ajay Shukla, Rahul Kusrame, Vivek Kawadkar, and Abhay Dhone.