Mumbai Police on Saturday arrested Chhotu Avdesh Gauda, who had been on the run for 17 years for the murder of Rajesh Soni Lakhwani (31) in Mulund.
The homicide occurred on October 1, 2008, at Dangar Pada in Mulund (West). According to police sources, the victim was stabbed multiple times during a dispute over drugs. Four individuals were involved in the attack; two were arrested shortly after the incident, while Gauda and another accomplice evaded capture for nearly two decades.
The breakthrough came when authorities received credible intelligence that Gauda would be present at Rowli Camp near Sion Koliwada. A police trap was set, and Gauda was apprehended as soon as he arrived at the location.
Following initial questioning, the Crime Branch handed him over to the Mulund Police Station for further investigation. Officials confirmed that efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining absconding accused and to close all aspects of the case.
This arrest underscores the persistent efforts of Mumbai police to bring long-standing fugitives to justice, even after many years.
