Santosh Ladda Robbery: Gold Sold in Nanded, Police Seize Country-Made Pistol
The investigation into the high-profile robbery at businessman Santosh Ladda's residence has taken a significant turn, as fresh leads have emerged from Nanded. Police have revealed that 20 tolas of the stolen gold were sold in the bullion market of Nanded, and one suspect has been arrested in connection with the case. A country-made pistol (locally known as a katta) was also seized from the suspect’s house.
Suspect Arrested, Weapon Seized
According to Crime Branch Police Inspector Sambhaji Pawar, the seized katta was recovered from the house of arrested accused Yogesh Hajbe. During the robbery, caretaker Jhalke was threatened with a firearm, and the police had been on the lookout for the weapon used. Earlier, another pistol was seized from Amol Khotkar on the day of the encounter. Both weapons are now in police custody.
Gold Sale and Cash Transaction Trail
Investigations revealed that accused Gangane from Ambajogai handed over 20 tolas of gold to Amol Khotkar, who in turn sent it to his maternal uncle in Nanded. The uncle sold the gold to a prominent bullion trader and received ₹19 lakh in cash. Following this development, police teams have intensified their operations and are conducting continuous surveillance from Ambajogai to Nanded.
Investigations Expand Across State Borders
Preliminary findings suggest that the stolen gold was distributed across various locations. Some portions may have been transported to other states. As a result, the scope of the investigation has now widened beyond Maharashtra and is being coordinated with other state authorities.
Verification of Gold Receipts Underway
Nineteen days after the robbery, businessman Santosh Ladda submitted receipts to the police for five and a half kilograms of gold. However, given the large scale of the loot, police are working to verify the actual quantity and value of the stolen gold. Sources indicate that these receipts are currently under close scrutiny.
The Santosh Ladda robbery case continues to unfold with new twists, and the police remain focused on recovering the remaining stolen assets and bringing all culprits to justice.