PANIC spread across the Kotwali area late Sunday night after suspected drug traffickers opened fire near Navyug School on Kothi Road in an alleged attempt to eliminate a rival gang member.
Police suspect the incident is linked to an ongoing turf war over the illegal MD (Mephedrone) trade in the city. The firing took place barely a kilometre from the headquarters of the RSS and close to the residence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
According to police, the attack is believed to be part of a long-standing rivalry between the Ghate brothers and the Ganga gang, both known for alleged involvement in narcotics-related crimes.As per the complaint lodged by Saurabh alias Aloo Ghate (27), he was sitting outside his house with friend Rohan and others around 11.40 pm when six men arrived on motorcycles.
The accused allegedly included Ganga Kakade, Ravi Mahto, Pratik Kadam and three unidentified associates.Police said the group stopped outside the house, challenged Saurabh, and allegedly opened fire. Around seven to eight rounds were reportedly fired before the attackers fled the spot on motorcycles.“One bullet struck a parked car outside the house, but fortunately no one was injured,” a senior Kotwali police officer said.
The late-night gunfire triggered panic among residents in the densely populated locality, especially as the area is considered highly sensitive and lies close to the Kotwali Police Station.After receiving information about the incident, Kotwali police teams along with forensic experts rushed to the scene.
Officers recovered a spent cartridge and started scanning CCTV footage from nearby houses and shops.
“CCTV footage clearly shows the attackers arriving on motorcycles and firing before escaping,” police said.
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