Robbery and Murder Investigation in Surat’s Sachin Area

The recent robbery and murder in Surat’s Sachin area has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting urgent concerns about safety and law enforcement in this industrial hub. The incident, which occurred at Shri Nathji Jewellers on the morning of April 20, 2024, resulted in the death of businessman Ashish Rajpara and injury to an employee. This has affected families, businesses, and residents in Sachin, a key locality in Choryasi taluka of Surat district.

5 Things You Need to Know About the Sachin Robbery and Murder

This violent crime unfolded when a gang of four armed robbers entered Shri Nathji Jewellers situated near Sachin GIDC at approximately 10:30 AM on April 20. Their intent was to steal a bag containing jewellery worth an estimated ₹50 lakh, according to police reports from the Surat City Police Department.

When the store owner, Mr. Rajpara, and his employee confronted the assailants, the robbers opened fire. Mr. Rajpara was fatally shot in the chest and died instantly. The employee sustained a gunshot wound to his leg and was admitted to Surat Civil Hospital, where he is currently in stable condition.

Local residents quickly intervened, apprehending one suspect after a brief chase. The injured robber was treated at Surat Civil Hospital before police took him into custody. Authorities have identified the remaining three suspects and are conducting active searches across Surat metropolitan limits and neighbouring districts.

3 Key Dates in the Investigation

1. April 20, 2024: Incident day and initial police response.
2. April 21, 2024: Crime scene reconstruction conducted by Surat Police at Shri Nathji Jewellers to collect forensic evidence and map the suspects’ escape routes.
3. April 25, 2024 (ongoing): Continued manhunt for the other suspects with coordination between Surat district police and Gujarat Crime Investigation Department.

4 Steps for Residents to Stay Informed and Participate in Safety Efforts

1. Register complaints or tips related to the case at the Sachin Police Station, located near Sachin Industrial Estate, Surat.
2. Attend community safety meetings organized by the Surat Municipal Corporation, scheduled every Saturday at 4 PM in the Sachin Ward Office.
3. Sign up for the Surat Police SMS alert system via suratpolice.gov.in/alerts to receive timely updates on crime and safety.
4. Participate in neighbourhood watch programs coordinated by local NGOs in Choryasi taluka to enhance vigilance.

5 Reasons This Incident Matters to You

• Community Safety: Sachin is a densely populated industrial area with over 1.5 million residents in the broader Surat metropolitan region; security lapses affect daily life and local businesses.
• Economic Impact: The attack on a jewellery store reflects risks to Surat’s vital gems and jewellery sector, which contributes over ₹30,000 crore annually to Gujarat’s economy.
• Police Accountability: Questions regarding response time and preventive measures have been raised, pushing the Surat City Police to improve patrolling and intelligence gathering.
• Legal Proceedings: The arrested suspect is being processed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 302 (murder) and Section 395 (robbery), with the case registered at Sachin Police Station.
• Public Vigilance: This case underscores the importance of citizen cooperation and rapid reporting to deter criminal activities.

Residents of Surat and surrounding districts are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities immediately. The Surat Police Department has also urged local businesses to enhance security measures, including installing CCTV cameras and employing trained security personnel.

For ongoing updates on public safety, residents can refer to official releases from the Surat City Police and participate in local government forums. This incident also draws attention alongside other local concerns such as the recent car fire in Palanpur’s Kozhi area and infrastructural challenges like flooding in Mehsana’s Bijapur area, emphasizing the need for comprehensive urban safety strategies.

Next Steps for Residents:

• Contact Sachin Police Station with any information related to the robbery.
• Enhance security at local businesses and homes.
• Engage with Surat Municipal Corporation safety programs to support crime prevention.