Maharashtra: Palghar Police arrest two from Mumbai's Byculla over armed robbery in Saphale

Police are now investigating whether the accused were involved in other similar offences in the region. Representational Pic/File

Palghar Police in Maharashtra have arrested two alleged repeat offenders from Byculla in Mumbai in connection with an armed robbery involving an 18-year-old pedestrian in Saphale.

The robbery took place on August 12 at around 8.50 pm on Dhondalpada Road near Kelwa Road. Police said the victim was threatened with a knife before his mobile phone and cash were allegedly taken.

According to the police, Anuj Kumar Shravan Rai, 18, was walking home when two unidentified men approached him.

The suspects allegedly threatened him with a knife and forcibly took his iQOO Neo 10R mobile phone worth Rs 38,000 and Rs 2,000 in cash before fleeing the area.

Following the complaint, Saphale Police registered a case under Sections 309(4) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

Technical analysis helps police trace suspects

Palghar Superintendent of Police Yatish Deshmukh directed Saphale Police Station to form a special detection team to identify the suspects.

Investigators used technical analysis and local intelligence to trace the alleged robbers to Byculla, Mumbai.

Police subsequently detained and arrested Mohammed Anas Mohammed Amjad Ansari, 32, a resident of Byculla and Mehfuz Ali Ansari, 38, a resident of Byculla.

Police said the two suspects admitted their involvement during questioning. The stolen mobile phone and the Rs 2,000 cash were recovered in full, according to the police.

During further investigation, police found that both accused allegedly have previous criminal records involving theft and fraud.

Cases have reportedly been registered against them at police stations in Dadar, Vashi, Ghatkopar and Nirmal Nagar, covering parts of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.

Police are now investigating whether the accused were involved in other similar offences in the region.

Investigation continues

The operation was carried out under the guidance of Palghar Superintendent of Police Yatish Deshmukh, Additional Superintendent of Police Vinayak Narale and Deputy Divisional Police Officer Umesh Gawli.

Assistant Police Inspector Datta Shelke led the investigation, assisted by police personnel Mahendra Sharma, Kailash Shelke, Kalpesh Keni and Ramdas Thange.

API Shelke is continuing the investigation into the case.