Kalyan Girl Kidnapping and Murder Case: Police Arrest Main Accused and Two Others

Authorities have detained the primary suspect in the alleged abduction and murder of a 12-year-old girl from Buldhana district, Maharashtra. This arrest occurred a day after her body was discovered near her hometown Kalyan. Alongside the main suspect, Vishal Gawli, his third wife and another individual were also taken into custody. Gawli has previous criminal records, including property-related offences.

The victim was reportedly kidnapped on Monday afternoon while playing outside her home in Kolsewadi, Kalyan. Her body was found the following morning near Bhiwandi in Thane district. The motive for this crime remains unclear, and police have questioned around ten people, including relatives and friends of the accused. An autorickshaw believed to be used in the crime has been seized.

Investigation and Arrest

Vishal Gawli was apprehended by Kalyan Police in Shegaon, Buldhana district, as he left a salon after shaving his beard to disguise himself. Deputy Commissioner of Police Zone-III Kalyan Atul Zende confirmed this arrest. Gawli was staying at his in-laws' place when he was caught. His third wife, Sakshi Gawli, who works at a bank, was also arrested and remanded in police custody for two days.

Police are examining CCTV footage to determine if more individuals were involved in the crime. They are investigating all possible angles and awaiting the postmortem report to decide if additional charges will be filed. If rape is confirmed, further legal sections will be added to the case.

Community Response and Legal Proceedings

The girl's parents filed a missing person report at Kolsewadi police station on Monday evening after searching for her for hours. Initially, an FIR under section 137 kidnapping of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was registered. After discovering her body, BNS section 1031 murder was added to the case.

Local residents held a protest march in Kolsewadi, demanding strict action against the accused. Many participants covered their mouths with black cloth and carried banners calling for capital punishment. BJP MLA Ravindra Chavan urged that the main suspect be tried swiftly and given a death sentence.

Political Reactions

Kalyan MP and Shiv Sena leader Shrikant Shinde visited the victim's family to offer condolences. He stated that this tragic incident would prompt the government to ensure that the accused receives a death sentence through court proceedings. "This is the most unfortunate incident," he remarked.

The investigation continues as authorities prioritise apprehending all involved parties and reviewing existing cases against Gawli. The community's demand for justice remains strong as they await further developments in this case.