A social media influencer known as “Pookie Don” has landed in serious trouble after being arrested by the Thane Crime Branch in an illegal arms case. The arrest has grabbed attention online, especially as the influencer had built a viral image on social media.
According to officials, multiple weapons were recovered during the operation, including guns and hundreds of cartridges. The case has now raised concerns over illegal arms possession and how such individuals manage to operate publicly.
Who Is The Viral Influencer Pookie Don?
Surendra Pandurang, widely known as “Pookie Don”, was taken into custody by the Thane Crime Branch after a large stock of weapons and bullets were seized from his bungalow in Dombivli. The arrest comes shortly after his release on bail in another case, raising fresh concerns about his activities.
Police officials mentioned that the raid was conducted late at night following a tip-off. Authorities recieved seven firearms, 371 live cartridges, and 167 air gun pellets, along with several sharp weapons including a sword, knives and iron rods. All these were found in a concealed compartment behind a false panel attached to a shoe rack inside the house.
The police said the weapons included country-made pistols and revolvers, as well as air guns, and some of them bore foreign markings. Officials noted that the quantity and condition of the ammunition suggested that the weapons were functional and potentially usable, prompting a deeper investigation into their origin and intended purpose.
Filmed Content Inside Police Station
Patil, 55, had built a significant following on social media, with over three lakh followers on Instagram, where he often portrayed a strongman image and was sometimes seen flaunting weapons in his videos. He had previously courted controversy for filming content inside a police station and posing with a service weapon.
Police officials stated that fresh charges have been filed against him under the Arms Act and relevant provisions of the Maharashtra Police Act. During questioning, the accused reportedly claimed that the weapons were used as props for his social media reels, a claim that investigators are now verifying.
Authorities are continuing to probe the source of the weapons and are examining whether there are any links to illegal arms suppliers or networks. Further investigation is underway, and more details are expected to emerge as the case develops.
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