AP govt reinvokes PD Act against gang-war accused KTM Pandu

Vijayawada: In a stern action, the state govt invoked the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against Koduri Manikanta, alias KTM Pandu (26), the main accused in the infamous 2020 gang-war clashes that resulted in the murder of Thota Sandeep.The gang war, which occurred in 2020 under the Patamata police station limits, saw dozens of youngsters from 2 rival gangs fighting with sticks, rods, and blades over a land dispute in the city. The govt invoked the PD Act against KTM Pandu for the second time, as his involvement in anti-social activities continued to disturb the law and order situation in society.The govt invoked the PD Act following a report prepared by Krishna district SP V Vidyasagar Naidu and forwarded by Krishna district collector DK Balaji to the state govt.A rowdy sheet was opened against him in 2020. Police said four cases were registered against him in 2023 and one in 2024. Taking into account his overall criminal history and repeated offences, the PD Act was invoked against him in 2024. Pandu was accused in a total of 18 cases, including 3 new offences, prompting the SP to reinvoke the PD Act.According to police records, KTM Pandu was involved in a series of grave offences, including murder, attempted murder, criminal intimidation, and ganja (marijuana) sales. Officials said he also instigated gang wars in the Penamaluru area, creating panic among residents and disturbing law and order.Pandu has been serving a jail term in connection with various cases registered against him and he is currently jailed at Rajamahendravaram central prison. SP Vidyasagar Naidu said that another 15 persons involved in similar offences have been identified in the district. Those who have been involved in two or more criminal cases are being shortlisted, and comprehensive reports are being prepared to invoke the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against those found to have committed serious offences in the district.