Funeral Turns Crime Scene: Rs 25 Lakh Gold Chains Snatched During Ajit Pawar’s Last Rites in Baramati
Baramati, 2nd February 2026: In a shocking incident, thieves allegedly stole gold ornaments worth around ₹25 lakh from at least 15 people during the funeral of late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati. Pune Rural Police have so far detained six suspects and are searching for their accomplices.
The thefts occurred on January 29, when a massive crowd had gathered for Ajit Pawar’s last rites. Taking advantage of the dense gathering, the accused targeted mourners and attempted to snatch gold chains and jewellery from their necks. Some of the suspects were caught and beaten by citizens before being handed over to the police, while others were arrested by the police on the spot.
Notably, nearly 8,000 police personnel had been deployed for security at the funeral venue. Despite the heavy police presence at the Vidya Pratishthan ground, the gang attempted the thefts with audacity, allegedly even in front of police officers, triggering public outrage over the breach in security.
Police Inspector Chandrashekhar Yadav of Baramati Taluka Police Station said that eight to ten complaints have been registered in connection with the case.
The accused named in the FIR include Rajkumar Baburao Athawale (resident of Gevrai, Beed), Mohammad Anis Mohammad Yunus, Ejaz Bhagu Miravale, Mohammad Sadiq Mohammad Siraj (all residents of Digras, Yavatmal), and Balu Baban Botre (resident of Palsadeo, Indapur taluka), along with two of his associates.
Complaints in the case have been filed by Ranjit Babasaheb Jadhav and Ramesh Lalasahab Wable. According to the FIRs, gold chains were stolen from several people, including Vijaya Gajanan Pawar, Nilesh Laxman Kate, Ashok More, Manohar Jadhav, Vijay Shinde, Jalindar Basle, Sanjay Kate, Vishwajit Tupe, Satish Satkar, Amol Tate, Ankush Dighe, Prashant Sapkal, and Vikas Bhagwat.
“We have started a thorough investigation, and all those involved in this theft racket will be arrested soon,” Inspector Yadav said.
