4 Arrested in Gang War-Related Murder of Pawan Hiranwar in Khaparkheda, Nagpur
Nagpur, India: Pawan Dheeraj Hiranwar, a notorious gangster, was shot dead in Khaparkheda on Thursday in a gang-related attack. Initially, it was believed that Pawan was the primary target, but new information has revealed that the real target was his cousin, Shailesh alias Bunty Vinod Hiranwar (30).
The Khaparkheda Police have arrested four individuals in connection with the murder. The accused are Siddharth Kowe, Pratham Shakya, Adhiraj Kanojia, and Avi alias Lalit Bhusari.
On Thursday afternoon, Pawan, Bunty, and their companions, Sahil alias Sonu Shendre, Himanshu Gajbhiye, and Siddharth Kowe, visited the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple in Babulkheda, near Khaparkheda, in a car (MH-47/BK-0323). As they returned, two men on a motorcycle shot at Pawan, killing him instantly. Bunty was also injured when a bullet grazed his ear.
Siddharth Kowe's role in the incident raised suspicions, and the police soon detained him. After questioning, Kowe revealed the names of the assailants. With help from the Nagpur Crime Branch, the other three accused were arrested. Pratham Shakya was the first to be captured by Khaparkheda Police.
Siddharth Kowe's Involvement and the Motive
Police sources suggest that Siddharth Kowe, who was a close friend of both Pawan and Bunty, had learned of Bunty’s planned visit to the temple. Kowe decided to join them and, during the trip, shared their location with the assailants. After leaving the temple, Kowe continued to provide updates, which helped the attackers track the group. As the gunmen approached on their motorcycle, Kowe reportedly slowed the car, allowing the attackers to shoot at Pawan before fleeing the scene. Authorities believe Kowe was paid a large sum to provide this information.
The motive behind the attack seems to be revenge. In 2022, Bunty attacked Avi alias Lalit Bhusari, one of the accused, injuring him severely. This incident led to two cases being filed against Bunty. Angry about the assault, Avi is believed to have plotted the revenge killing.
The investigation continues, with police working to uncover more details of the crime.