Crime – Suspect Killed, Officer Injured in Dehradun Police Encounter
Crime – A man accused of carrying out a shooting and robbery was killed during a late-night encounter with police in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun, officials confirmed on Thursday. The incident unfolded as law enforcement teams pursued suspects linked to a violent robbery case.
Police Chase Leads to Gunfight
According to Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Dobhal, the confrontation occurred while officers were tracking individuals suspected of attacking a man and looting cash along with a mobile phone. As the police closed in on the suspects, the situation escalated into an exchange of gunfire.
During the encounter, one of the accused allegedly opened fire at the police team, prompting officers to respond. The retaliation resulted in one suspect sustaining critical injuries.
Police Officer Injured in Action
Station House Officer Naresh Rathore, posted at Premnagar Police Station, was injured after being struck by a bullet during the exchange. He was immediately rushed to a nearby Primary Health Centre and later shifted to a higher medical facility for advanced treatment.
Officials stated that Rathore’s condition is being closely monitored, and he is receiving necessary medical care.
Injured Suspect Dies During Treatment
The injured suspect was also taken to a hospital following the encounter. However, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. Police have not yet disclosed the identity of the deceased.
Authorities confirmed that the encounter was a response carried out in self-defence after the accused allegedly initiated the firing.
Second Accused Escapes Into Forest Area
While one suspect was neutralized, another individual managed to flee the scene under the cover of darkness. Police said the accused escaped into a nearby forested area, making the search operation more challenging.
Teams have since launched an extensive manhunt to locate and apprehend the absconding suspect. Multiple checkpoints and barricades have been set up across key routes, particularly near district borders.
Search Operation Intensified
Security personnel have been deployed in large numbers to conduct combing operations in and around the forest region. Officials indicated that surveillance and checking measures have been intensified to prevent the suspect from escaping further.
Police sources added that coordinated efforts are underway, involving local units and specialized teams, to track the movements of the absconder.
Recent Encounters Raise Security Concerns
This incident comes shortly after another encounter earlier in the month in Dehradun involving suspects connected to the murder of a retired army officer. In that case, one accused was shot in the leg during a chase after allegedly firing at police personnel. A weapon was also recovered from the scene.
Authorities believe these back-to-back encounters highlight ongoing concerns related to violent crimes in the region. Investigations in both cases remain active.
Investigation Continues
Police officials have stated that further details regarding the robbery case and the identities of those involved will be shared as the investigation progresses. Forensic teams and investigators are working to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the encounter.
The search for the second accused remains a priority, with officials emphasizing that efforts will continue until all individuals involved are brought to justice.