Thane police form SIT to probe murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader

Thane police have formed a 23-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar. Purnekar was shot and stabbed on Tuesday night in the Kapurbawdi police station jurisdiction, later succumbing to his injuries at a hospital.

Authorities have arrested two suspects, including the alleged shooter Nikhil Yadav and an accomplice Nitesh Pawar, following an operation in the Raigad district. A former aide of the victim, Papya Shinde, has also been arrested. Police are currently searching for two additional suspects who remain at large.

The investigation has taken a political turn following a statement from the victim’s son, Ram Purnekar, who accused former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband, Rajendra, of orchestrating the crime. Meenakshi Shinde, a leader of the ruling Shiv Sena, has strongly denied the allegations, suggesting political rivals are attempting to exploit the tragedy.

The SIT is being led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Amarsingh Jadhav. The case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act.