The British High Commission in India has confirmed that fugitive gangster Nilesh Ghaywal, a notorious figure wanted for multiple serious offenses such as murder and extortion, is currently in London. Ghaywal is present in London on a visitor visa, according to officials.
The High Commission has officially informed UK authorities about the revocation of Ghaywal’s Indian passport, as stated by Pune Police officials. Ghaywal, known for his history of violent criminal activities in Pune, is believed to have absconded from India by utilizing a fraudulently obtained passport.
Following suspicions of his presence in the United Kingdom, the Pune Police formally contacted the British High Commission to request his detention and subsequent deportation. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sambhaji Kadam reported receiving a confirmation from the High Commission, stating that Ghaywal is in London on a visitor visa, reportedly to visit his son, and that UK authorities have been notified of his passport’s cancellation.
Ghaywal was last implicated in a road rage incident on September 18 in Pune’s Kothrud area, where his associates allegedly fired shots and injured an individual. A lookout circular and an Interpol Blue Corner Notice have been issued against him. Police suspect he traveled to the UK to join his son and are seeking details about his visa, duration of stay, and expiry from the British High Commission.
Ghaywal’s criminal journey began in 1999 with an extortion case. By 2001, he had been charged in several cases, including one for murder. Once an associate of gangster Gajanan Marne, Ghaywal later became a rival. His notoriety escalated after a violent 2010 shootout in Pune’s Dattawadi area, which resulted in one death and critical injuries to another person. This incident marked his rise in Pune’s criminal underworld, leading to his arrest later that year.
Throughout his career, Ghaywal has faced charges in over 20 cases, including murder, extortion, land grabbing, and offenses under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). Authorities allege his gang engaged in forceful property acquisitions at gunpoint, illegal arms possession, and intimidation of local businesses. Investigations also suggest he manipulated personal details to obtain a fake passport for his escape.