Pune: Masked Miscreants Caught On Camera While Vandalising CCTV In Hadapsar; Police Launch Search
Pune, December 20, 2025: Fear of CCTV surveillance appears to be growing among criminals, with many now checking for cameras before committing offences and targeting them first to erase evidence. A similar incident has come to light from Hadapsar’s Gadital area, where a video of miscreants vandalising a roadside CCTV camera late on Friday night has gone viral.
Ironically, while the accused attempted to destroy one CCTV camera, their act was captured by another camera installed in the same locality, exposing their actions and causing concern among residents. Hadapsar police have launched a search for the suspects.
According to information, the incident took place late Friday night in a residential settlement behind the Gadital Hanuman Temple, under the jurisdiction of Hadapsar police station. Four unidentified men, with their faces covered by masks and armed with sticks and a sickle, were seen moving near Laxmi Sadan building. After spotting a CCTV camera installed outside a house, the accused deliberately attacked it, smashing it into pieces. Police sources say the camera was targeted as CCTV footage can be used as evidence in court.
However, while the accused were vandalising the camera, another CCTV camera in the vicinity recorded the entire incident. After witnessing the act, local residents alerted the police. A police team visited the spot, inspected the area and the damaged CCTV camera, and initiated preliminary inquiries.
Despite police action, residents said the viral video has heightened fear in the neighbourhood. Locals alleged that criminals are roaming freely at night, creating an atmosphere of terror among citizens. Speaking on condition of anonymity, residents told Pune Pulse that the police must take strict action to curb such incidents and restore a sense of safety.
Responding to the incident, Hadapsar police station officials said that police had visited the location on Friday night itself after receiving information about the CCTV footage. “We have collected preliminary details. The identities of those involved and their motive will be clear once they are detained. A search operation is currently underway,” he said.
