Punjab Police : Intensifies Action Against Organised Crime After Encounter in Amritsar
Punjab Police: A wanted criminal was injured during a police encounter in the Amritsar district of Punjab after he allegedly opened fire on police personnel during an operation. Senior officials confirmed that the incident occurred when police teams attempted to apprehend the accused based on specific intelligence inputs. The encounter highlights the growing resolve of law enforcement agencies to curb organised crime and dismantle gangster networks operating across the state.
Background of the Encounter
According to police officials, the injured accused has been identified as Mani Soorma, a known criminal with a long history of involvement in violent and organised crime. He is reportedly an active member of the Kishan Jandiala gang, which has been linked to multiple criminal activities in Punjab. Law enforcement authorities stated that Mani Soorma has been absconding for a considerable period and is wanted in several serious criminal cases, including those related to violence and illegal activities.
Statement from Senior Police Officials
Speaking to the media, Sandeep Goel, Deputy Inspector General of the Border Range in Amritsar, provided details of the operation. He explained that the accused had previously escaped police custody following an earlier encounter. During that earlier incident, Mani Soorma had sustained injuries and was admitted to a hospital, from where he managed to flee. Since then, police had been actively tracking his movements.
Intelligence-Based Police Operation
On Tuesday, police teams received credible intelligence regarding the presence and movement of the accused. Acting swiftly on this information, officers launched a coordinated operation to arrest him. When police personnel approached the suspect, he allegedly opened fire in an attempt to evade arrest. In the exchange of gunfire that followed, Mani Soorma was injured, while police personnel remained unharmed due to tactical positioning and prompt response.
Medical Treatment and Ongoing Investigation
After the encounter, the injured accused was immediately shifted to a hospital in Amritsar, where he is currently undergoing medical treatment under police supervision. Authorities have confirmed that adequate security arrangements have been put in place at the hospital to prevent any escape attempt. Meanwhile, police have intensified surveillance in the surrounding areas and initiated further investigation to identify potential associates who may have provided logistical or financial support to the accused.
Broader Crackdown Under War on Gangsters Campaign
The encounter comes at a time when Punjab Police have launched a comprehensive statewide initiative aimed at dismantling organised crime networks. Under the War On Gangsters campaign, law enforcement agencies have initiated a 72-hour operation focused on disrupting the entire ecosystem that supports gangster activities. This includes action against criminal financing, illegal arms supply chains, and shelter providers.
Massive Statewide Police Deployment
As part of the first phase of this campaign, nearly 12,000 police personnel have been deployed across Punjab to conduct raids at approximately 2,000 locations. The operation is designed to apply simultaneous pressure on known criminals and their networks, thereby preventing them from regrouping or relocating. Senior officials have emphasised that this approach is intended to create a sustained deterrent against organised crime.
Leadership and Strategic Oversight
Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav stated that the Punjab government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards gangsters. He confirmed that the Chief Minister is personally monitoring the operation to ensure accountability and effectiveness. According to the DGP, clear instructions have been issued that no criminal elements will be allowed to operate freely within the state.
Special Cell for Extradition and Financial Crackdown
To address the challenge of gangsters operating from outside Punjab, a specialised cell has been formed under the leadership of Ashish Chaudhary. This cell includes officers from various operational wings and focuses on extradition efforts, coordination with central agencies, and intelligence sharing. Additionally, Punjab Police have intensified efforts to track and disrupt criminal financing channels that sustain organised crime groups.
Public Support and Long-Term Strategy
Police officials have also launched an anti-gangster helpline to encourage public participation and information sharing. The Punjab government has sanctioned substantial financial rewards to incentivise credible intelligence leading to the arrest of wanted criminals. Authorities believe that sustained operations, combined with public cooperation and financial disruption, will significantly weaken gangster networks over the long term.