Ahmedabad: Jewellers in Fear as Khadia Loot and Shooting Case Remains Unsolved
Ahmedabad: The city of Ahmedabad remains on edge as jewellers express their growing concern over an unsolved robbery and shooting incident that occurred 17 days ago in Khadia. Despite ongoing efforts by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch, the perpetrators remain at large, leaving the community in fear.
The incident took place in broad daylight at Vikasbhai Soni's shop in Fatashani Pol, Khadia. An armed masked robber fired shots and looted gold worth Rs 56 lakh before fleeing the scene. The attack left Vikasbhai Soni critically injured, necessitating multiple surgeries.
Community's Response
The unsolved case has instilled a sense of fear among Ahmedabad's jewellers. Vikasbhai Soni's son, Raj Soni, expressed the family's distress, urging the police to recover their valuable assets and apprehend the culprit swiftly.
"Seventeen days have passed, and we are still waiting for justice. My father has undergone four operations due to the injuries from the shooting. We request the police to return our valuable items and catch the person responsible as soon as possible," Raj Soni said.
Concerns Over Security
The frequent targeting of jewellers and angadia (courier) firms has raised alarm bells within the community. Jigar Soni, President of the Jewellers Association, highlighted the grave concern over non-functional CCTV cameras along the iconic CG Road and Manek Chowk, areas known for substantial gold trade.
"Every day, around 100 kilograms of gold is traded along CG Road and Manek Chowk. Unfortunately, many of the CCTV cameras in these areas are not operational. Despite multiple complaints to the AMC, the issue remains unresolved. We fear a repeat of the 2013-2014 incidents when Vishal Goswami terrorized jewellers with a series of shootings and robberies," Jigar Soni stated.
Official Response
GS Malik, the Police Commissioner, acknowledged the severity of the situation and assured that steps are being taken to address the security concerns. The local police and AMC are under pressure to reactivate the non-functional CCTV cameras and bolster security measures to prevent further incidents.
As the investigation continues, the jeweller community in Ahmedabad remains anxious. The pressure is on the authorities to restore a sense of safety and security before another significant incident occurs.
The jewellers and traders in Ahmedabad await decisive action from the police and municipal authorities to ensure such incidents do not recur, maintaining the city's reputation as a safe hub for business and trade.
