Infamous coal smuggler Chetan Meshram, along with two partners, was apprehended by the Crime Branch while in the act of smuggling goods worth ₹21 lakhs. Following the operation, tension has risen as Chetan remains detained by the Pardi Police. Concerns have been raised about the police's handling of the situation.

The arrested individuals include Chetan Madhukar Meshram (47), Gulam Nabi Yakub Mulla (42) from Kalamna, and Kaliram Maniram Jambekar (45) from Amravati.

Chetan has long been involved in coal smuggling, facing charges ranging from attempted murder to coal theft. He steals coal for resale and has been operating an outpost along the Bhandara road for years, enjoying police protection.

In a recent raid at Umiya Industrial Area, Chetan and his accomplices were caught loading a truck with stolen coal. Despite their efforts to evade detection, the police seized 23 tons of coal and the truck, totaling ₹21.26 lakhs.

Following the operation, the accused and seized goods were handed over to the Pardi Police for further action. However, upon their release, uproar ensued within the police and Crime Branch. Sources suggest that despite careful planning, inaccuracies occurred during the operation, leaving room for improvement.

Chetan's precise and well-prepared methods have made him a formidable figure in the coal smuggling business, evading capture until now. However, the recent operation sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime.