Pune Crime Branch Files 1,700-Page Chargesheet Against 21 Accused in Vanraj Andekar Murder Case
Pune, 15th February 2025: The Pune Police Crime Branch on Friday filed a 1,700-page chargesheet against 21 accused in the murder of former NCP corporator Vanraj Andekar. The chargesheet was submitted before Special Judge V. R. Kachre, detailing the gang war and property dispute that led to Andekar’s killing in Nana Peth on September 1 last year.
The accused include gangster Somnath Gaikwad, Andekar’s sister Sanjeevani, her husband Jayant, brothers-in-law Ganesh and Prakash Komkar, and others. They have been charged under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
The chargesheet includes statements from 39 witnesses, technical analysis of conversations between the accused, CCTV footage, and forensic evidence. The Crime Branch has also seized eight pistols, seven cartridges, and seven axes used in the crime.
The investigation revealed that the murder was linked to a long-standing property dispute. Sanjeevani’s shop in Nana Peth had been demolished during an anti-encroachment drive, which she believed was carried out at Andekar’s behest. Allegedly, she, her husband, and gangster Somnath Gaikwad conspired to eliminate Andekar.
The case is also tied to a previous killing in 2023, when Andekar’s associates allegedly murdered Gaikwad’s aide, Nikhil Akhade, in Nana Peth. In retaliation, Gaikwad is said to have orchestrated Andekar’s murder.
Key Findings in the Chargesheet
Weapons Seized: Eight pistols, seven cartridges, and seven axes.
Vehicles Confiscated: Seven two-wheelers and three cars.
Witnesses: Statements of 39 witnesses, including five to six eyewitnesses.
Juvenile Accused: Two minors were involved, and their chargesheets were filed separately before the Juvenile Justice Board.
Accused on the Run: Some suspects had fled to Mangaon in Raigad district but were later arrested.
The Crime Branch sought three extensions before filing the chargesheet to ensure a thorough investigation. Under normal circumstances, a chargesheet in serious crimes must be filed within 90 days, but under MCOCA, an additional 90-day extension was granted by the court.
