Fugitive Arrested After 23 Years on the Run for Palghar Rape Case

After evading arrest for over 23 years, Shantaram Veena Varta, the prime suspect in a 2001 rape case in Palghar, Maharashtra, was recently apprehended. Varta had been eluding law enforcement by constantly changing locations. He was finally caught after police surveillance and a tip-off led to his arrest.

Shantaram Veena Varta, wanted for over 23 years in connection with a rape case dating back to 2001 in Palghar district, Maharashtra, has been apprehended, police reported on Monday. The arrest follows extensive surveillance and a crucial tip-off.

Varta, now 49, had successfully evaded capture by frequently changing his location since the crime's occurrence. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone III) Jayant Bajbale stated that the victim had been abducted from her relative's home during a cousin's wedding and taken to a nearby field where she was assaulted.

Varta was the main accused, supported by four accomplices. While four were arrested and one died during trial, Varta continued to remain free. His arrest on August 17 came after police received a tip-off about his frequent visits to Thanekarpada hamlet to meet relatives. Police plan to file a supplementary charge sheet against him soon.

(With inputs from agencies.)