Jodhpur: Raju Manjhu, the leader of the 007 gang that had long been synonymous with terror in western Rajasthan, was finally apprehended by police in a well-planned operation. The Anti-Gangster Task Force (ANTF) team executed the operation in a highly theatrical style, apprehending the accused in Jaipur after days of surveillance and strategizing.
A trap laid in a filmy style
According to the police, apprehending Raju Manju was difficult. He was constantly changing locations and avoiding direct contact. Therefore, the team approached him by posing as an arms supplier.
When he didn't appear even after several days of negotiations, the police remained patient. Finally, a plan was made to meet him in the Mansarovar area of Jaipur. The police team maintained constant surveillance there for three days.
During this time, a soldier set up a tea stall and remained present at the scene, posing as a civilian, to keep an eye on the situation. As soon as Raju arrived at the appointed time, the team surrounded him and arrested him.
The journey of crime started with small fights
Raju Manjhu, a resident of Jambheshwar Nagar in Lohawat area of Jodhpur district, entered the world of crime around 2013 due to petty disputes.
Gradually he moved towards organised crime and within a few years became a notorious gangster.
Formation of the '007 Gang' and the era of gang wars
During 2017-18, he formed the 007 gang with his partner Shyam Punia. Later, after Guru was imprisoned, Raju himself became the gang leader.
His gang was in constant conflict with other gangs active in the area, leading to several incidents of open firing and gang wars.
The tactics of Raju and his associates were extremely dangerous—they would first chase the opponents, then hit them with a vehicle and open fire.
More than 36 serious cases registered
More than 36 serious cases like murder, robbery, kidnapping, firing, drug trafficking and attack on police are said to be registered against Raju Manjhu.
The police had been searching for him for a long time and catching him remained a big challenge.
Extortion, arms and drugs network
Raju adopted many ways to strengthen his hold in the world of crime.
Recovery from toll contractors and construction companies
illegal arms supply
drug trafficking
Through these activities he expanded his network and strengthened himself financially.
Image of 'Don' on social media
Raju Manjhu was also very active on social media, sharing photos and videos with weapons and portraying himself as a major gangster.
Because of this, he had a distinct identity among the youth.
Wires connected to big gangs
According to investigating agencies, Raju was also linked to the country's notorious gang network.
While in prison, he made contacts with other gangsters, which further strengthened his criminal network.
Big success for the police
This arrest is being considered a big success for Rajasthan Police.
This operation, carried out under the guidance of senior officers, was successful on the basis of long-term planning and intelligence information.
Now what?
The police are now interrogating Raju Manjhu to gather information about his network, associates and other criminal activities.
There is a possibility that after this arrest, major action may be taken against other gangs active in western Rajasthan.
The arrest of Raju Manjhu is not just the arrest of a gangster, but a major blow to the organized crime spreading in western Rajasthan. It remains to be seen how successful the police will be in completely dismantling this network.
