Civic polls ahead, cops asked to crack down on top 10 gangsters

Updated on: 14 November,2011 09:13 AM IST |
Kaumudi Gurjar |

As just a few months remain for the civic elections, Commissioner of Police Meeran Chadhha Borwankar has ordered a crackdown on the top 10 notorious gangsters in the city and its vicinity

As just a few months remain for the civic elections, Commissioner of Police Meeran Chadhha Borwankar has ordered a crackdown on the top 10 notorious gangsters in the city and its vicinity.

The police fear that the gangsters will actively indulge in extortion if not checked. While top officials would not disclose the names of the gang members in question, they said these toughies were primarily involved in serious offences like murder, attempt to murder, extortion and kidnap in the city and the adjoining rural areas.

Checking extortion
According to sources, the orders were issued since the police feel that extortion cases will increase prior to the elections. They said the move was initiated to destroy the nexus between gangsters and political parties.

Additional Commissioner of Police Anant Shinde said: "A list of top 10 notorious criminals and gangsters involved in serious offences has been prepared. But their identity cannot be revealed since it is confidential." Crime Branch sources said instructions had been given to crack down on the serious offenders. The police refused to give any more information, saying they did not want to alert the criminals in any way.

"Chances are there that they might approach court seeking bail or submit PILs claiming that their associates are in danger. We are all prepared to ensure their activities are disrupted," said an officer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.