In a swift and decisive operation, the Gwalior police have arrested two youths responsible for the sensational firing at the Baretha toll plaza. The investigation into the incident, which occurred just 48 hours ago, took a dramatic turn when police revealed that the accused were not social activists protesting road conditions, but students settling a year-old personal score.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Ashwini Bhadauria (22), a resident of Bhind, and Nikhil Chauhan (19), from Gazipur, Uttar Pradesh. Both are currently students living in the Badagaon area of Gwalior.
A Calculated Misdirection
When the duo opened fire at booth number 07 on Monday evening, they left behind a handwritten note that quickly went viral. The note criticized the government for the poor condition of the Gwalior-Bhind highway and demanded its immediate construction, claiming the attack was a protest against rising road accidents.
However, during interrogation, the "protest" was revealed to be a smokescreen. Ashwini Bhadauria confessed that his true motive was revenge. Roughly a year ago, Ashwini and his father were involved in a heated argument with toll employees while passing through the plaza. Since that day, Ashwini had been nursing a grudge, waiting for the right moment to strike back.
"The note regarding the highway construction was a deliberate attempt to mislead the police and gain public sympathy," stated Senior Superintendent of Police, Dharmveer Singh.
The 300-Camera Manhunt
The Gwalior police successfully cracked the case by scanning footage from more than 300 CCTV cameras. While the attackers wore helmets and scarves to mask their identities, investigators managed to track their flight path from the toll plaza through DD Nagar and Pinto Park.
The breakthrough came when a high-resolution camera captured the motorcycle's number plate. This lead took the police to a hotel in Murar, where both suspects were apprehended. Along with the arrests, police recovered:
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The Bullet motorcycle used in the crime.
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A country-made pistol and live cartridges.
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The clothing and scarves used to disguise themselves.
Why This Case Matters
The incident highlights a growing and dangerous trend in the Chambal region where personal disputes are increasingly escalated into public shootings. By framing their personal vendetta as a social cause—referencing the very real issues of the Gwalior-Bhind highway—the youths attempted to manipulate both the law and public sentiment.
Key Takeaways for Residents:
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Security Vigilance: The incident underscores the critical importance of high-definition CCTV infrastructure at public transit points.
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Police Efficiency: The use of digital tracking shows a significant shift in how regional law enforcement handles "hit and run" style crimes.
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Social Warning: Authorities have warned that using social or civic issues as a cover for criminal activity will be met with strict legal action.
The accused are now facing multiple charges related to attempted murder and the Arms Act. While the highway issues remain a topic of local debate, the police have made it clear that violence is never the answer.
