Shirur Police have arrested a habitual motorcycle thief who had stolen multiple two-wheelers from various places across Pune district. The arrest led to the detection of 11 theft cases and the recovery of 11 stolen motorcycles worth Rs 6.6 lakh.

The accused has been identified as Santosh alias Sharad Gajanan Ingole (29), a resident of Pangiri Kute, Malegaon.

According to the police, in the last few months, a series of motorcycle thefts occurred in Shirur jurisdiction. Accordingly, multiple teams were deployed to detect the culprits.

Acting on a tip-off, Ingole was arrested at his native place Malegaon. During the interrogation, Ingole confessed to the crimes, leading to the recovery of 11 stolen motorcycles.

Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Ramesh Chopade, Additional SP (Pune Rural Police), said, "The accused Ingole is a habitual offender and has committed multiple thefts earlier. Seven cases of theft have already been registered against him at various police stations. And now his name has come to light in another 11 cases, totalling 18 cases against him."

"Ingole usually sold the bikes to innocent people, luring them with offers of two-wheelers at cheap rates and promising to provide documents later. We are investigating the matter. Soon more people will be arrested," he added.

A case has been registered under Section 303(2) at the Shirur Police station.