By Tejas
Pune, October 22, 2024: In a late-night operation on Monday, Pune police seized Rs 5 crore in cash from a private car at the Khed Shivapur toll plaza, raising concerns about potential electoral malpractice. The seizure occurred during the election blockade, leading to suspicions that the cash may have been intended for unlawful use during the ongoing election process.
Pune District Superintendent of Police, Pankaj Deshmukh, confirmed that the vehicle, bearing the registration number MH 45 AS 2526, was intercepted at the toll plaza. Upon inspection, officers found Rs 5 crore in Rs 500 denomination notes inside the car. The police have verified that the currency is genuine.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the car belongs to Amol Nalawade, a resident of Sangola. Political opponents have alleged that Nalawade is a supporter of Shiv Sena (Shinde group) MLA Shahaji Patil. However, Nalawade has denied any involvement, stating that he had sold the vehicle to a man named Balasaheb Asabe.
Following the discovery, police are investigating possible political links to the cash seizure. The incident has sparked political reactions, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut mocking Shahaji Patil over the matter. Additionally, NCP leader Rohit Pawar has also called for a thorough investigation into the case to uncover any wrongdoing, stated a press release.
