Mumbai-Bangalore Highway Panic Two Men Arrested After Viral Video Shows Them Threatening Commuters with Toy Pistol

In a surprising incident near Pune, two men were arrested for creating chaos and fear on the Mumbai-Bangalore Highway by brandishing a toy pistol in a way that mimicked a real weapon, shocking commuters and raising public safety concerns. This unsettling display of intimidation happened near Vadgaon Bridge on October 31, catching widespread attention after a video of the event went viral on social media.

The individuals involved have been identified as Akshay Ankush Gaikwad, 27, from Shivne, and Sunil Chandrakant Shinde, 28, from Warje. Both men now face charges of public intimidation and disturbing the peace. According to the police, the suspects were using a Diwali toy pistol—commonly associated with festive sounds rather than fear—to deliberately unsettle other travelers along the route. The incident prompted an immediate police response after the video was widely shared online, showing the two on a motorbike, with one of them waving the fake gun and shouting, as if to imitate an actual firearm.

After the video gained traction, Pune’s Sinhagad Road Police launched a search to locate Gaikwad and Shinde. Once apprehended, it was confirmed that the so-called weapon was simply a toy pistol, one often used to make harmless ticking sounds during Diwali celebrations. Nevertheless, their actions are seen as irresponsible and reckless, and authorities are treating the matter seriously given the possible repercussions.

Senior Police Inspector Raghavendra Singh Kshirsagar, from the Sinhagad Road Police Station, commented on the risks posed by the duo’s behavior. “Although the pistol was a toy, their actions created genuine fear and could have escalated if people had reacted in panic,” he said. The inspector emphasized the importance of responsible behavior in public spaces, especially when it comes to actions that could be mistaken as threats to safety.

The suspects have been charged under sections related to public nuisance and intimidation, marking an important step in discouraging such behaviors that disrupt peace and endanger lives. The police investigation is also set to determine if Gaikwad and Shinde have a history of similar disruptive conduct, as their actions indicate a serious disregard for public safety.

This incident serves as a reminder of the power and impact of social media in both exposing such behavior and prompting swift action from law enforcement. Pune police officials have acknowledged the role of vigilant citizens who share such videos, aiding in the rapid identification and apprehension of offenders. However, they also warn that imitating violence, even with toys, can have unexpected and dangerous consequences.

As Diwali celebrations continue, authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution and sensitivity when using festive items like toy pistols, which may be misinterpreted. The need for responsible celebration is particularly emphasized in high-traffic areas, where seemingly harmless pranks or displays could lead to severe consequences.

While Gaikwad and Shinde’s actions did not result in physical harm, the situation underscores the ongoing importance of awareness, caution, and consideration for others.