Aurangabad: Khuldabad police have apprehended a henchman associated with the late mafia-politician Atiq Ahmed, seizing crude bombs and a firearm. Suspected of involvement in serious offenses, the arrest marks a significant development in the investigation. Identified as Sudhanshu Tripathi, also known as Balli Pandit, the individual was found in possession of ten crude bombs, a locally made firearm, and ammunition in the Chakia area, allegedly with intent to commit a crime.
Balli, residing in the Newa locality of Dhumanganj, has a criminal history and forged ties with Atiq following conflicts with BSP MLA Raju Pal, who was killed in 2005. Further interrogation is underway to gather information about the whereabouts of Atiq’s wife, Shaista Parveen, and other suspects linked to the murder of lawyer Umesh Pal. The arrest occurred after Khuldabad police acted on a tip-off, raiding a lane in the Chakia area and apprehending Balli, who has a significant criminal record, including charges of murder, kidnapping, attempted murder, and extortion across various police stations. Police officials characterize Pandit as a hardened criminal who maintained contact with Shaista Parveen, allegedly extorting money on her behalf. Balli’s criminal history traces back to 2002 when he engaged in retaliatory actions against Raju Pal, following a scuffle involving his father, a former deputy SP in the CBI. Taking refuge under Atiq Ahmed’s wing, Balli aligned with his gang, culminating in the shooting of Raju Pal’s vehicle in 2005, shortly before Raju Pal’s demise in a shootout.
