What was meant to be a solemn farewell to Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar turned into a shocking crime scene, after multiple cases of chain-snatching were reported during the state funeral ceremony in Baramati.

Thousands had gathered at the Vidya Pratisthan ground on January 28 to pay their last respects following Pawar’s death in a plane crash earlier that day. Amid the grief and heavy crowds, thieves allegedly targeted mourners, stealing gold ornaments worth an estimated ₹25–30 lakh.

---

Snatching Incidents Amid Tight Security

Despite the presence of nearly 8,000 police personnel deployed for security, several attendees reported that gold chains were forcibly pulled from their necks in the crowd.

Witnesses said the suspects appeared to take advantage of the emotional atmosphere and congestion, striking quickly before disappearing into the gathering. The incidents created panic among mourners, many of whom had come from different parts of Maharashtra to attend the funeral.

---

Multiple Complaints Filed

Victims later approached Baramati Taluka Police Station, where multiple cases of chain-snatching were registered. According to police sources, at least 15 people have formally reported theft of gold ornaments.

Authorities have begun reviewing CCTV footage and mobile video clips from the venue to trace additional suspects and map how the thefts were carried out despite the tight security arrangements.

---

Suspects Detained After Public Intervention

In some instances, alert members of the public reportedly caught suspected thieves in the act and handed them over to police on the spot.

Police have confirmed that several individuals — identified as Mohammad Yunus, Rajkumar Athavale, Ejaz Miravale, Mohammad Siraj, Balu Botre, and two others — have been detained in connection with the incidents. Officials say the accused are being questioned, and efforts are underway to recover the stolen jewelry and determine whether a larger organized gang was involved.

Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and more arrests could follow.

---

Public Outrage and Safety Concerns

The brazenness of the alleged thefts during a high-profile state funeral has sparked widespread anger in Baramati and beyond. Many citizens have questioned how such crimes could occur at an event with such a heavy police presence and strict security planning.

The incident has also reignited debate about crowd safety and crime prevention at large public gatherings, especially those drawing emotional and densely packed crowds.

As the investigation continues, police say additional security reviews will be conducted to prevent similar incidents at future state events.