Palghar: In a significant breakthrough, the Waliv crime detection unit has arrested two individuals involved in a series of motorcycle thefts used for illegal racing across Vasai-Virar. The operation led to the recovery of seven stolen motorcycles and several dismantled parts, collectively valued at ₹8.21 lakh.

The arrests were made in connection with a case registered at Waliv Police Station on April 9, where an unidentified individual stole a Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle (MH-48-Q-3388) parked near Vinayak Enterprises, Gita Udyog Nagar, Vasai (East). The complaint triggered a wider investigation into rising motorcycle thefts in the region.

The arrested individuals have been identified as: Sahil alias Bappi Shaikh (20) and Arshan alias Arshu Saudagar (22), an Ola driver both are residents of Malvani, Malad (West), Mumbai.

Speaking on the operation, ACP Umesh Mane-Patil stated, “The accused were systematically stealing motorcycles for street racing and resale of spare parts. Our team worked tirelessly, reviewing surveillance footage and acting on ground-level intelligence, to identify and apprehend them. This is a commendable example of coordinated policing and effective fieldwork.”

The investigation, led by Police Sub-Inspector Vinayak Raut, resulted in the recovery of seven stolen motorcycles and parts linked to at least four separate cases. The accused were apprehended from the Malvani area in Mumbai, where they had been operating covertly.

ACP Mane-Patil added, “Motorcycle theft has been a growing concern in the Vasai-Virar belt. Our focus is not only on solving these cases swiftly but also dismantling the networks that enable such crimes. We will continue to act decisively against offenders involved in vehicle thefts and illegal racing.”