Hunt for Puja Khedkar’s family intensifies after driver’s arrest
- September 20, 2025
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Navi Mumbai police have intensified their search for the family of Puja Khedkar after arresting a driver connected to an alleged abduction case. The incident stems from a road rage confrontation that escalated into the kidnapping of a truck driver, later rescued from the Khedkar family residence in Pune. Authorities continue to pursue Khedkar’s parents, who remain untraceable.
Police confirmed the arrest of Praful Salunkhe, who worked as the driver for Puja Khedkar’s father. His detention is linked to the alleged abduction of truck driver Prahlad Kumar. The confrontation reportedly began as a road rage dispute before escalating into a serious criminal case that drew widespread attention.
The abducted truck driver, Prahlad Kumar, was eventually traced and freed from the Khedkar family bungalow in Pune. According to officials, the rescue operation faced resistance at the property when Puja Khedkar’s mother allegedly attempted to obstruct police efforts. Despite this interference, Kumar was safely removed from the premises and placed under protection.
While Salunkhe is now in custody, investigators report that both of Puja Khedkar’s parents remain absconding. Their absence has complicated efforts to fully resolve the case and has prompted authorities to widen their search operations across multiple locations. Police sources indicate that locating them is now a top priority in order to move forward with legal proceedings.
The case has triggered an extensive probe by Navi Mumbai police, who are piecing together how a traffic altercation escalated into an abduction incident involving multiple individuals and properties across districts. Investigators are examining evidence gathered from the Pune bungalow and questioning associates connected with the family to determine potential accomplices or additional charges.
The developments surrounding Puja Khedkar’s family have drawn significant public interest due to the unusual circumstances linking a road rage incident with allegations of kidnapping and obstruction of justice. The arrest of Salunkhe marks a key step forward, but authorities stress that apprehending Khedkar’s parents remains essential for concluding their inquiry and ensuring accountability for all involved parties. In summary, Navi Mumbai police have made progress by detaining Praful Salunkhe in connection with the abduction of truck driver Prahlad Kumar, who was rescued from a Pune residence tied to Puja Khedkar’s family. However, with her parents still absconding, investigators continue their search while expanding inquiries into how this confrontation escalated so dramatically. The case highlights both legal complexities and public scrutiny as authorities work toward resolution.