Bengaluru: Gunshots echoed in north-east Bengaluru early Friday morning as police opened fire on a murder accused who allegedly attempted to attack officers during an arrest operation. The accused, identified as Ranjith, a key suspect in the brutal killing of a rowdy sheeter, was shot in the leg before being taken into custody.
The incident is linked to the recent murder of Pavan Kumar, a known rowdy sheeter from DJ Halli, who was hacked to death in Amarjyothi Nagar. According to police sources, the attack was carried out by a group of assailants wearing helmets and face masks, making identification difficult. Pavan had reportedly been out on bail for nearly three months prior to the killing.
Based on specific intelligence inputs, a team led by Sampigehalli Inspector Venkatesh tracked Ranjith to a deserted location near Bagalur in the early hours. When officers attempted to arrest him, the accused allegedly tried to assault the police personnel with a long (machete-like weapon). One officer reportedly sustained minor injuries during the scuffle.
Police first resorted to air firing and instructed the accused to surrender. However, when he allegedly continued the attack attempt, officers opened fire in self-defence, shooting him in the leg before securing the arrest.
Investigators believe the murder may have stemmed from previous enmity. The gang had reportedly attacked Pavan in front of his residence, in the presence of his mother, in a shocking act that sent ripples across the locality.
Senior officers have stated that further investigations are underway to track down other members of the gang involved in the killing. The incident marks a rare instance of police firing in the city in recent times, signalling a renewed crackdown on violent criminal activities.
