Palghar, Maharashtra: A shocking attempt to abduct two minor schoolgirls in the Mulgaon area of Vasai was foiled on July 21, as alert local residents intervened and caught the accused, including three men posing as transgender individuals and an autorickshaw driver. The suspects were severely beaten by the crowd before police arrived.
According to preliminary information, the two girls from Khochivade village were walking home as usual through the Kharekuran area of Mulgaon when they were allegedly targeted by four men travelling in an autorickshaw. The accused have been identified as Sharad Shinde, Sanjay Golankar, Nilesh Mandavkar, and autorickshaw driver Suraj Matol, all residents of Kalwa, Thane.
Locals reported that the suspects attempted to forcibly pull the girls into the rickshaw. However, the girls screamed for help, drawing the attention of nearby residents who quickly came to their rescue. In a matter of seconds, the crowd overpowered the accused and subjected them to a heavy beating.
Police reached the scene soon after being informed but had difficulty calming the agitated mob. The suspects were then taken to Sir D.M. Petit Municipal Hospital for medical treatment and later brought to the Vasai Police Station for further inquiry.
During initial questioning, it was revealed that the accused had been impersonating transgender individuals to beg for money in the area. Locals also stated that the same rickshaw and suspects had been seen roaming suspiciously in the locality over the past few days, hinting at a pre-planned motive.
Police are now collecting CCTV footage and additional evidence to build a strong case. The statements of the two minor victims are being recorded, confirmed Senior Police Inspector Balkrishna Ghadigaonkar of the Vasai Police Station. Further probe is underway.
