Pune: In connection with the heinous sexual assault of a young woman at Bopdev Ghat, Pune Police have intensified their search to apprehend the culprits.

With support from law enforcement agencies across other districts, more than 300 police officers and personnel have been deployed to track down the accused.

The incident took place late at night on Thursday, October 3rd, when a college student and her male friend were visiting the Bopdev Ghat area.

Around 11 p.m., three individuals armed with machetes confronted the duo. The attackers threatened the pair, beat them with bamboo sticks, and then restrained the woman’s friend using his own shirt and belt. Following this, the perpetrators sexually assaulted the young woman.

According to Joint Police Commissioner Ranjankumar Sharma, "Multiple investigation teams, including units from the Pune Police Crime Branch, are working around the clock to trace the suspects. To bolster our efforts, we have also called in officers from neighboring districts. Currently, more than 300 personnel are dedicated to this case."

Police have questioned over 200 suspects in the course of the investigation. Using descriptions provided by the victim, sketches of two of the attackers have been drawn up.

To encourage public assistance, Pune Police have announced a reward of ₹10 lakh for any information that leads to the arrest of the accused.

Cyber Expert Assistance

In a bid to expedite the investigation, police have compiled data on more than 3,000 mobile phone users who passed through Bopdev Ghat at the time of the incident.

In addition, CCTV footage from the vicinity has been obtained. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and technical analysis, authorities are reviewing all available data. Police have also sought the expertise of private cyber professionals to assist in this high-profile case, according to Joint Police Commissioner Sharma.