Crime – Armed Robbery Accused Arrested After Gunfire in Delhi
Crime – A man accused of masterminding an armed robbery worth Rs 85 lakh in Delhi’s Shastri Park area has been arrested following a brief exchange of gunfire with police in the IP Estate locality. Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that the suspect, who also has links to a previous murder case, was apprehended after a late-night operation.
Police Operation Based on Specific Intelligence
According to officials, the arrest was made after police received precise information late on March 23 about the suspect’s movements. Acting swiftly, a team set up surveillance near the Rose Garden service road along MG Road, where the accused was expected to meet his associates around midnight.
The operation was carefully planned to intercept the suspect without alerting his network. Officers remained stationed at the location for several hours, waiting for him to arrive.
Accused Attempts Escape, Opens Fire
At approximately 12:22 am, the suspect was seen approaching the area on a grey scooter. When police signalled him to stop, he tried to escape but was quickly surrounded.
As officers closed in, the man abandoned his vehicle and allegedly began firing at the police team with the intention to escape. During the exchange, multiple shots were fired. One of the bullets struck an inspector’s bulletproof jacket, preventing what could have been a serious injury.
Police Respond, Suspect Injured and Captured
In response to the gunfire, police returned fire in self-defence, aiming at the suspect’s lower body. He sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, after which he was subdued and taken into custody.
The injured man was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital and remains under police supervision. Officials confirmed that an illegal firearm, along with live cartridges and spent shells, was recovered from his possession at the scene.
Background of the Accused
The arrested individual has been identified as Ajay, also known as Kaliya, aged 34, a resident of Usmanpur. Police described him as a habitual offender with a long criminal record spanning multiple serious offences.
Investigators revealed that he is believed to have led a small gang consisting of four to five members and played a central role in planning and executing the Shastri Park robbery. His criminal history reportedly includes cases of robbery, murder, theft, and violations under the Arms Act across Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
Ongoing Investigation to Trace Associates
Following his arrest, police have registered a fresh case in connection with the firing incident and illegal possession of weapons. Efforts are now underway to identify and locate his accomplices, who are suspected to be part of the robbery network.
Authorities stated that further interrogation of the accused is expected to provide crucial leads about the gang’s operations and any additional crimes linked to them.
The case highlights continued police vigilance and swift response in tackling organised crime in the national capital. Officials have reiterated their commitment to tracking down remaining members of the group and ensuring stricter enforcement against repeat offenders.