Thane Sena (UBT) leader dies after shooting, police say

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar died in hospital after unidentified assailants fired at him and physically assaulted him in Thane, Maharashtra, police said. The attack took place at about 9 p.m. on Tuesday under the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station.

Purnekar, who was described by a party leader as the Thane division head, sustained serious bullet injuries. He was taken to Infinity Hospital near R Mall on Ghodbunder Road, where doctors began emergency treatment. Police said he died during treatment.

After receiving information about the incident, officers went to the scene, secured the area and collected forensic evidence. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the location and surrounding roads in an effort to trace the attackers’ escape route. Police checkpoints, known locally as nakabandi, were established at major exits in Thane as authorities searched for the suspects.

The identities of the assailants were not immediately known. Police said the motive remained unclear. Investigators were examining several possible explanations, including political rivalry and personal enmity.

The shooting caused tension in the area and concern among local party workers and supporters. Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and a swift investigation. The source material does not report any arrests, describe the suspects or provide details about the weapon used beyond police saying that two rounds were fired.

It also does not include a response from other political parties or the Maharashtra government. The investigation remains ongoing, with police examining physical evidence, CCTV recordings and possible escape routes. Authorities have not announced a confirmed motive or identified anyone as responsible for the attack.