Thane: In a shocking incident that has sparked political outrage and heightened security concerns in Thane, former corporator Sudhir Kokate, affiliated with the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), was allegedly attacked with a sharp weapon near his office at Tembhi Naka late Sunday night.

According to police, the incident took place around 10:30 pm on May 19, when Kokate was seated outside the Navratri office at Suvrat Apartment along with friends. A woman, identified as Afreen Khan, and an unidentified male accomplice reportedly launched a sudden and violent assault, allegedly using a chopper-like weapon.

Kokate escaped unhurt, but his associate, Gajanan Mhatre, sustained serious injuries, with slashes on his back and left forearm. He is currently undergoing treatment.

A FIR was filed at the Thane Nagar Police Station on May 20, under BNS Sections 118(2), 351(3), 493(5), and provisions of the Indian Arms Act, 1959 (Sections 4, 25).

Speaking to the press, Shailesh Salvi, senior PI and Thane Police Commissionerate PRO, confirmed the details. "The attack appears to be the result of a previous dispute. The accused, Afreen Khan, along with her male accomplice, fled the scene immediately after the assault. CCTV footage from the area has been collected and is under analysis. We have launched a manhunt and are actively pursuing leads," he stated.

The incident has caused considerable uproar on social media, especially after CCTV footage of the attack surfaced online late Sunday night, showing the moments leading up to the violent assault.

Kokate, while speaking briefly to the media, condemned the attack and urged law enforcement to act swiftly. "This was a premeditated attack on my life. I trust the police will apprehend the culprits soon and ensure justice is served," he said.

The Thane Police have assured the public that the investigation is being conducted on a priority basis, and appeals have been made for any eyewitnesses or individuals with information to come forward.

This incident marks a disturbing escalation of politically motivated violence in the region and has prompted calls for enhanced security for public representatives.