Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction leader Pradeep Purnekar, the party’s Thane division head, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Thane on Tuesday night. Police said the attack took place around 9 pm near his office in the Manpada–Manorama Nagar area, within the jurisdiction of Kapurbawdi police station. Purnekar sustained serious bullet injuries and died during treatment at a nearby hospital.
Following the shooting, police secured the area and began collecting forensic evidence. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the crime scene and surrounding roads to identify the attackers and trace their escape route. Police have also set up checkpoints at major exits from Thane. The motive behind the killing has not yet been established, with authorities examining multiple possible angles, including political rivalry and personal enmity.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible and a swift investigation. Party leaders and supporters have also raised allegations regarding Purnekar’s political activities and his opposition to issues in the local area; however, these claims have not been established by investigators and remain allegations.
The killing has triggered tension among party workers and residents in the area as police continue efforts to identify and apprehend the assailants.
