Fadnavis targets juvenile crime and drug influence in Pune

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced tough measures against crimes involving the Koyta gang in Pune. He reported that 70% of those involved in these cases are juveniles, often influenced by drugs. The government plans to take action against those who recruit and manipulate these young offenders. Fadnavis shared details in the Legislative Assembly about nine recent Koyta gang cases in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Nineteen people are accused, with 13 of them being juveniles aged 15 to 16. He emphasized that, although the crimes follow a similar pattern, they do not represent organized gang activity. The new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita law allows for the prosecution of those who guide and instigate these young offenders. Concerns were raised by NCP MLA Chetan Tupe about how children are being drawn into crime through drug use. He pointed to a recent police seizure of drugs worth over ₹1.5 crore and urged further investigation into the involvement of foreign nationals in drug activities. Fadnavis indicated that the police have been active in combating drug trafficking. Over the past three years, significant quantities of drugs have been seized, and several police officers have been dismissed for their links to the drug trade. The government is also focused on fighting Ponzi schemes. A financial investigation unit will be set up to protect investors and prevent fraud.