Here’s how Allu Arjun's ‘Pushpa 2’ helped Maharashtra police nab notorious gangster

Maharashtra Police successfully apprehended gangster-turned-drug peddler Vishal Meshram on Thursday night from a packed cinema hall in Nagpur, where he was watching ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’. The gangster, a fan of Allu Arjun's iconic character from the film, was nabbed during the movie's night show at Koradi Road cinema hall.


According to the reports by ET Now, Meshram, wanted for over 27 criminal cases, including two murders and multiple drug trafficking offenses, had been on the run for 10 months. His admiration for Pushpa 2 became the police's key lead in tracking him down. The operation was meticulously planned, with officers deflating the tyres of Meshram’s SUV to prevent an escape and strategically positioning themselves inside the hall.


As the movie reached its climax, a police team stormed the theatre and apprehended Meshram, catching him by surprise. Despite his attempt to resist, he was overpowered and taken into custody without incident. The audience, initially startled by the unexpected commotion, soon resumed enjoying the film after learning the police had nabbed a high-profile criminal.


Senior Inspector Baburao Raut, who led the operation, revealed that the police had been tracking Meshram's movements through cyber surveillance and had identified his vehicle, a Thar SUV, which he used to travel around Nagpur. Intelligence suggested Meshram had a penchant for Allu Arjun’s signature style from Pushpa and was likely to attend the movie's screening.


Meshram, who had previously evaded arrest twice, returned to Nagpur a few months ago. The police learned of his presence in the Hingna and Wadi areas and eventually confirmed his whereabouts through informants.


Following his arrest, Meshram was lodged in Nagpur Central Jail and will soon be transferred to Nashik Central Jail.