Thane: Shiv Sena (UBT) Manpada division chief Pradeep Purnekar was shot dead in Thane on Tuesday night. Unidentified assailants fired two rounds at him in the Manpada–Manorama Nagar area, following which he was rushed to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Police have launched an investigation into the killing.
According to police, the incident took place at around 9 p.m. under the jurisdiction of Kapurbawdi police station. Purnekar was attacked near his office and sustained serious bullet injuries. He was taken to Infinity Hospital near R Mall on Ghodbunder Road, where doctors attempted to save him, but he died during treatment.
Preliminary information suggests that the attackers were unidentified and fled the scene after the shooting. Police teams reached the spot and secured the area for forensic examination. CCTV footage from the location and surrounding roads is being examined to identify the assailants and establish their escape route. Checkpoints have also been set up at major exit points in Thane.
Reports also indicate that Purnekar was physically assaulted during the attack. According to the information available, he was attacked with a sharp-edged weapon in addition to being shot.
Was the Killing Linked to a Builder Dispute?
Purnekar had reportedly announced plans for a major protest against alleged arbitrary actions by a local builder. He had also sought permission from Kapurbawadi police station for the proposed agitation.
However, police have not confirmed that the builder dispute or the planned protest was connected to his killing. Investigators are examining multiple possible angles, including political rivalry and personal enmity.
Police are trying to determine the number of attackers, the weapons used in the crime and the route taken by the assailants while fleeing. The investigation is ongoing.
