Pune Daylight Kidnapping: Woman Abducted After Attackers Throw Chilli Powder

A shocking daylight abduction in Pune district has triggered fear and outrage after a 21-year-old woman was forcibly taken away by attackers who used chilli powder to disable her family members. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening in Bhigwan village of Indapur taluka and has led to a large-scale police search operation.

According to police officials, the woman was travelling on a two-wheeler with her mother and brother after returning from a local market. During the journey, a four-wheeler intercepted them on the road. The assailants allegedly threw red chilli powder into the eyes of her mother and brother, temporarily blinding them and causing confusion at the scene.

Taking advantage of the situation, the attackers dragged the woman into their vehicle and fled before bystanders could react. The sudden and brazen nature of the crime created panic in the area.

Police have registered a kidnapping case at Bhigwan Police Station against two brothers, Zaheer Haroon Shaikh and Ayan Haroon Shaikh, residents of Daund. Authorities confirmed that the accused and the victim were known to each other and lived in the same locality.

Investigators stated that the incident took place around 4 pm. Police teams rushed to the scene immediately after receiving information and launched a search operation. Checkpoints were set up across the district and nearby areas to track the suspects and locate the victim.

Preliminary findings indicate that the woman had been in contact with one of the accused in the days leading up to the incident. Call records and message data are currently being examined as part of the investigation. Officials clarified that all possible angles are being explored to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the abduction.

The incident sparked tension in the locality, prompting protests by members of some Hindu organisations outside the police station. Demonstrators raised slogans demanding swift action and the woman’s safe recovery. The protests were later withdrawn after reports emerged regarding prior contact between the victim and the accused.

Authorities have increased security deployment in the area to maintain law and order while the search operation continues. Police have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with investigators.

The case has raised concerns about public safety and the need for vigilance against crimes targeting women. Officials emphasised that efforts are underway to trace the suspects and ensure the victim’s safe return.