The Samta Nagar police’s detection team in Mumbai has arrested a habitual pickpocket who focused on stealing valuables from commuters in crowded BEST buses. The suspect, Suresh Pawar (50), linked to more than 10 theft cases, officials said.
Theft on the BEST Bus in Mumbai
According to officials, the latest incident happened on November 9, 2025. Gulafsha Shaikh (26), a Kandivali resident, was traveling on BEST bus number A-478 from Goregaon to Vikhroli Depot around 12:30 p.m. During the trip, an unidentified man is said to stolen her handbag, which contained two gold mangalsutras, silver jewelry, and cash, totaling about ₹1.05 lakh.
CCTV Trail Leads to Accused
A case filed at the Samta Nagar Police Station, and a special team led by API Yogesh Raut and PSI Rahul Walunjkar began a thorough investigation. Using CCTV footage and technical analysis, the police located and arrested Pawar in Appapada, Malad.
Investigators found that Pawar is a repeat offender who would take advantage of crowded buses during rush hour to quietly steal handbags, wallets, and jewelry. With his arrest, police claim to have solved at least 10 outstanding theft cases across Mumbai.
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