The police in Mumbai’s Powai area have dismantled a significant gas cylinder theft operation and apprehended three individuals. The prime suspect, Raj Chandrakant Kamble (45), along with two accomplices, is now in custody. Authorities have recovered 45 gas cylinders and three stolen motorcycles, pilfered from different locations in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane.
Recent tensions in Gulf countries have sparked concerns among residents about gas cylinder availability, leading to an uptick in theft incidents. The situation worsened with thefts like these, exacerbating the public’s challenges. A complaint about a stolen two-wheeler in Powai Police Station’s jurisdiction unveiled the case.
Further investigations revealed that the stolen bike was utilized by the suspects for the gas cylinder thefts. Subsequently, a formal case was registered, prompting an in-depth inquiry by the police. Analyzing local CCTV footage and employing technical means, law enforcement identified the culprits.
A raid in Thane’s Vartak Nagar area resulted in the arrest of one suspect, leading to the apprehension of others based on the information provided. The seized items included three motorcycles and 45 gas cylinders stolen from various regions. The suspects admitted to engaging in such criminal activities for an extended period.
Records indicate that the main suspect, Raj Chandrakant Kamble, has over 10 criminal cases against him in Mumbai and other police stations. Powai Police are actively investigating the network and seeking to uncover additional gang members involved in the illicit activities.
