Both hospitalised with bullet injuries; two pistols recovered, gang links under investigation
PANCHKULA: Two youths from Amritsar were injured and arrested following an exchange of fire with Panchkula Police near Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Sector 3 on Monday night, October 12. Both sustained bullet injuries to their legs and were taken to the Government Hospital in Sector 6 for treatment under police supervision.
The accused were identified as Arshdeep Singh and Jugraj Singh, both residents of Amritsar district. Deputy Commissioner of Police Amrinder Singh confirmed their identities. They had reportedly arrived in city to hit a target.
According to police, a Crime Branch-2 team set up a checkpoint after receiving information that two armed suspects were moving around the stadium on a black motorcycle.
Police alleged that the riders attempted to turn back when signalled to stop and subsequently opened fire. The suspects allegedly fired four rounds, while police personnel fired five rounds in retaliation. Two pistols—a Zigana and a .30-bore weapon—and four live cartridges were reportedly recovered.
During the confrontation, a bullet struck the bulletproof jacket worn by Sub-Inspector Anuj Madan, while another passed close to Assistant Sub-Inspector Sunil Kumar, according to the police account. Both suspects were apprehended after being injured.
A forensic team was called to examine the scene. A case was registered at Sector 20 police station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act, including those relating to attempt to murder and obstruction of public servants.
Investigators are examining the source of the weapons and the purpose of the suspects’ presence in the Tricity. Arshdeep had previously been booked under the Arms Act, according to reports. Police is investigating their links with Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
Although claims have circulated linking the youths to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, their affiliation has not been established. The latest detailed report, citing police, said no connection with any gang or criminal network had been confirmed.
Police Commissioner Pankaj Nain said further legal proceedings would follow once the suspects’ medical condition stabilised.