Pune: Shiv Sena Leader Arrested For Staging Attack To Obtain Gun License and Police Security

Warje, 29th May 2025: A Shiv Sena leader in Pune faked a gunfire attack on his own car in an attempt to secure a firearm license and police protection. What was initially believed to be a genuine attack has now turned out to be a staged incident.

Nilesh Ghare, the District Head of the Yuva Sena, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena’s youth wing, was arrested late Wednesday night. The Warje Malwadi Police also arrested three residents of Warje: Sachin Gole (22), Shubham Khemnar (24), and Ajay Sakpal (21). Another accused, Sanket Matle, who allegedly fired the gunshots, is currently absconding.

Ghare, who has a party office in the Ram Nagar area of Warje, was reportedly in a meeting there on the night of 19th May. He had parked his car outside and gone into the office when, according to initial reports, unidentified assailants opened fire on his vehicle. By the time Ghare rushed outside, the shooters had fled.

The Warje Malwadi Police formed a special investigation team and, after five days of inquiry, arrested the three individuals. During interrogation, it was revealed that the shooting was orchestrated at Ghare’s behest to bolster his case for obtaining a pistol license and police protection. Ghare had previously applied for a firearm license, but his request was rejected. Subsequently, the fake shooting was staged to strengthen his claim.

Given his position as the district head of Yuva Sena, Ghare had also sought police security. The investigation indicates that the entire incident was fabricated with the intention of obtaining both the license and state-provided protection.