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Tirumala Gang Foiled: PD Act Used on Offenders
6 Jul
Summary
- Two habitual offenders from the Gogula family detained under PD Act.
- Criminal network involved extortion and assault on traders.
- Accused used self-harm to intimidate police and avoid arrest.
Tirupati district police have invoked the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against two habitual offenders from the Gogula family in Tirumala. This action targets individuals whose repeat offenses could not be curbed by regular laws.
The accused, Gogula Kotaiah and Gogula Srinivasulu, were arrested and transferred to Kadapa central prison. A search is ongoing for the prime accused, Gogula Srikanth, who is currently absconding. Authorities confirmed that procedures are in motion to also apply the PD Act to him upon apprehension.
Investigations revealed that the Gogula family, led by patriarch Gogula Nagesh, operated an organized criminal network. Their activities included illegal hawking, extorting pilgrims, overpricing goods, and assaulting resistant local traders.
Furthermore, the gang employed a disturbing tactic of self-harm, including slashing themselves with blades or smashing their heads against walls. This was done to intimidate police and falsely accuse them of custodial violence.
With a criminal record spanning two years, the gang faced multiple cases, including attempted murder and extortion. Tirupati SP L Subbarayudu affirmed the police's commitment to the shrine's sanctity and pilgrim safety, warning that habitual offenders will face severe legal consequences, including the PD Act.
