Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Pradeep Purnekar Shot Dead In Thane; One Arrested, Another Detained

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Maharashtra’s Thane on Tuesday night. Police have arrested one suspect and detained another for questioning as investigators examine CCTV footage and other evidence.

Purnekar Shot Near Office In Thane

The attack took place at around 9 p.m. in the Manpada-Manorama Nagar area, within the jurisdiction of Kapurbawdi police station. Purnekar was reportedly attacked near his office when the assailants opened fire.

Police said Purnekar suffered two gunshot wounds and was rushed to a hospital on Ghodbunder Road. He died while undergoing treatment.

CCTV Footage Under Scanner

Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area and surrounding roads to establish the sequence of events and trace the movements of the attackers.

According to police, one of the detained suspects was allegedly present at the scene during the firing and is suspected of being involved in the conspiracy. Another suspect is being questioned over allegations that he provided a vehicle to the attackers.

Police are continuing their search for other people who may have been involved in the shooting.

Body Sent To JJ Hospital For Post-Mortem

Purnekar’s body was sent to Mumbai’s JJ Hospital on Wednesday morning for a post-mortem examination. DCP Prashant Kadam said a detailed report would be available after the procedure.

Police are investigating multiple possible motives, including political rivalry and personal enmity. The exact motive has not yet been established.

Possible Builder Dispute Being Examined

The killing is also being investigated against the backdrop of a proposed protest by Purnekar over alleged irregularities involving a local builder.

According to the supplied report, Purnekar had sought permission from Kapurbawdi police to stage the demonstration. However, police have not confirmed any connection between the proposed protest, the builder dispute and the killing.

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey criticised the law-and-order situation in Maharashtra following the incident.

Police are continuing to examine CCTV footage, forensic evidence and other leads as the investigation progresses.