Pune: FIR Lodged After Five Racehorses Injured in Suspected Sabotage at Racecourse
Pune: FIR Lodged After Five Racehorses Injured in Suspected Sabotage at Racecourse ( Representational image )
Pune, September 27 2025: An FIR has been registered against three individuals after five thoroughbred racehorses sustained injuries in what police suspect was a deliberate attempt to keep them out of upcoming competitions at the Pune racecourse. The case was filed on September 24, 2025 at Wanowrie police station.
The complaint, filed by veteran trainer Hormals Jamshed Antia, alleges that the horses were repeatedly struck on their front knees with blunt objects, leaving them with severe swelling but no fractures. Antia, who has over 2 decades of experience in the industry, identified the accused as supervisor Manoj Madhutek, along with Nirbhay Singh and Nausar Alam.
“The injuries appeared one after another, every few days. When five horses suffered similar swelling within weeks, it was clear this was no accident. It looked like someone hit them hard with a bamboo stick,” Antia observed state police.
The injured horses, owned by different individuals, regularly compete in races organized by the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) in Pune and Mumbai. Four of them had participated in the recent Indian Derby weekend, making them highly valuable contenders.
Police said the attacks took place over a six-week period. Inspector Vijayraj Doke of Wanowrie police station confirmed that the case has been filed under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
While X-rays ruled out fractures, further scans revealed significant soft tissue injuries that could keep the animals out of racing for weeks. They are currently under veterinary care at RWITC facilities.
Investigators are now probing the motive and possible financial links between the accused. Antia, who reported each case to RWITC, turned to the police after the fifth incident.
