Nagpur Police Crack Down on Gangsters Flaunting Power on Social Media
Nagpur city police have launched a major crackdown on gangsters using social media to exhibit their influence and intimidate the public. Three cases were registered on Friday against prominent criminals for posting videos showcasing their wealth, clout, and fan following. The action comes in response to media reports highlighting how gangsters were utilizing platforms like Instagram to cultivate a larger-than-life image and instill fear. The videos often depicted the gangsters being showered with money, flaunting expensive clothing and jewelry, participating in qawwali performances, and enjoying the adulation of their followers. This online display of power prompted swift action from law enforcement.
Following directives from State Director General of Police (DGP) Rashmi Shukla and Commissioner of Police (CP) Ravinder Singal, a high-level meeting was convened, leading to the initiation of the crackdown. Joint CP Nisar Tamboli oversaw the operation, with DCP Lohit Matani, in charge of the cyber cell, registering three separate cases against gangsters from Nagpur and Pune. Several gang members were summoned for questioning by zonal DCPs, including Rashmitha Rao. The police action has sent many gangsters into hiding, with some switching off their phones to evade arrest.
Among those booked are notorious gangster Abu Khan and his son Raja Mazhar Khan. They are accused of uploading multiple videos showcasing their wealth and power. Police are also investigating Abu Khan’s alleged unauthorized entry into the Taj Bagh shrine, a violation of his bail conditions which restrict his movement within the city limits except for court appearances. Further scrutiny is being applied to his alleged recent encroachments. Another prominent figure targeted in the crackdown is former sharpshooter Sayyed Raja Gous, who faces over 23 criminal cases. Gous was booked for posting Instagram videos glorifying his criminal past. Following police action, Gous replaced his boastful posts with an apologetic message. His associate, Pune-based gangster Gajanan Marne, has also been named as a co-accused in the case.
The use of social media for self-promotion and intimidation is not limited to Nagpur and Pune. Gangsters from Pimpri-Chinchwad, Akola, and other cities have also been identified as using platforms like Instagram to rebuild their influence after being released on bail. The rivalry between these gangs has fueled a surge in competitive posts, with followers actively engaging in the online glorification of their criminal idols through likes, shares, and comments. Senior police officials have confirmed that not only the gangsters themselves but also their followers and those uploading the videos are under investigation.
The police are actively pursuing those who have gone underground. "We have issued a notice to Gous in connection with the case against him. Meanwhile, efforts are on to trace Abu, Ippa, and their aides, who have gone underground after the FIRs were registered," stated a senior officer. The police believe that Instagram and other social media platforms have become tools for gangsters to project an image of power, wealth, and influence, hence the need for this decisive crackdown. The investigation is continuing, and authorities are committed to holding those responsible accountable for their online activities.
This crackdown signifies a new front in law enforcement’s battle against organized crime. It highlights the increasing use of social media by criminal elements to project power, intimidate rivals, and recruit new members. The police are adapting their strategies to address this emerging trend, sending a clear message that online platforms will not be a safe haven for criminal activity. The focus on holding not only the gangsters but also their followers and content uploaders accountable is a significant aspect of this operation, aiming to dismantle the ecosystem that supports and amplifies the gangsters’ online presence. The ongoing investigation and pursuit of those who have absconded demonstrate the police’s determination to curb the misuse of social media for criminal purposes.