Pune: Man Arrested for Poisoning 12 Dogs in Pimpri-Chinchwad’s Mahindra Antheia Society

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 16th May 2025: A suspect has been arrested in connection with the poisoning of 12 dogs in Pimpri-Chinchwad. The incident occurred on 13th April, when reports emerged that 12 dogs in the Mahindra Antheia Society, located near the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) Administrative Building, had been poisoned. A case was registered at the Sant Tukaram Nagar Police Station.

The suspect has been identified as Alaukik Raju Kotecha, 37, a resident of Mahindra Antheia. According to police reports, Mahindra Antheia is a large residential society in the heart of Pimpri-Chinchwad. On the morning of 14th April, residents discovered that 12 stray dogs had been poisoned, three died on the spot, and the remaining nine died during treatment.

Stray dogs have lived in and around that area for several decades. Following the incident, Sant Tukaram Nagar Police launched an investigation. CCTV footage showed the accused repeatedly driving around the area in his car. Based on his suspicious movements and further findings from his mobile phone, the police detained him.

Senior Police Inspector Vanita Dhumal, in charge of the Sant Tukaram Nagar Police Station, stated, “A suspect has been arrested for poisoning dogs. He was seen roaming around the scene on the day of the incident. Also, some suspicious items were found on his mobile phone. If any more details emerge during the investigation, appropriate action will be taken.”