Pune Police Crack Down on Modified ‘Phataka Silencers’; 11 Bikes Seized, 3 Garage Owners Booked
Pune's Kalepadal Police seized 11 motorcycles fitted with illegal modified "phataka silencers" after late-night noise complaints and viral videos. Cases have been registered against the riders, while three garage owners face legal action for installing the modified exhausts. Police say the search for other offenders is still ongoing.
Pune: Pune Police have launched a major crackdown on motorcycles fitted with illegal modified "phataka silencers" after loud explosive-like noises disturbed residents across several parts of the city. Acting on complaints and viral social media videos, the Kalepadal Police Station conducted a special operation and seized 11 motorcycles, while also initiating legal action against three garage owners for installing the illegal exhaust systems.
The incidents occurred between 11:00 p.m. on July 31 and 5:00 a.m. on August 1, 2026, when several riders of Bullet motorcycles and other bikes were seen racing through the streets with modified silencers that produced loud cracker-like sounds.
Residents Disturbed by Late-Night Noise
The nuisance was reported from Kadnagar Chowk, Nyati Chowk, Raheja Vista Chowk, and the Undri-Mohammadwadi area, where bikers allegedly drove recklessly while creating deafening noises.
Videos of the incident quickly went viral on social media, prompting several local residents to approach the police. According to complaints, the loud explosions disrupted sleep and created panic among elderly citizens, women, and children.
Police Action
Following the complaints, Kalepadal Police launched an investigation using technical evidence and confidential inputs to identify the vehicles involved.
During the operation, police:
•Seized 11 motorcycles fitted with illegal modified silencers.
•Removed and destroyed the modified silencers.
•Registered cases against the riders.
•Initiated legal action against three garage owners accused of installing the illegal exhaust systems.
Search for More Offenders Continues
Police officials said efforts are underway to identify and trace other bikers involved in the late-night disturbance. Authorities have warned that strict action will continue against anyone using illegal vehicle modifications that violate traffic and noise pollution regulations.
The police also urged vehicle owners to avoid unauthorized modifications and appealed to citizens to report similar incidents to help maintain public safety and peace.