Police Encounter in Uttar Pradesh Claims Life of Wanted Criminal

A police encounter in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in the death of a wanted criminal identified as Mehtab. The incident occurred late on the night of March 15, 2024, when police acted on a tip-off regarding the presence of two motorcycle-borne suspects in the area.

According to Aditya Bansal, the Superintendent of Police (Rural), officers from Budhana and Shahpur police stations were conducting checks along the Parasoli canal track when the suspects opened fire upon being signaled to stop. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, Mehtab sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His accomplice managed to escape the scene.

Mehtab, a 30-year-old resident of Sonta Rasoolpur village in Shamli district, was facing numerous charges, including robbery, dacoity, kidnapping, and attempted murder. Authorities had issued a reward of ₹1 lakh for information leading to his arrest.

Details of the Encounter

During the confrontation, two police personnel were injured: Budhana police outpost in-charge Lalit Kasana and constable Aleem from Shahpur station. Additionally, bullets struck the bulletproof vests of Budhana Station House Officer (SHO) Subhash Atri and Shahpur SHO Mohit Kumar.

Officers were able to recover significant evidence from the scene, including a .32-bore revolver, a 9mm pistol with cartridges, a motorcycle, three tolas of gold, and one kilogram of silver. Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Senior Superintendent of Police, confirmed that Mehtab had over a dozen serious cases registered against him and emphasized the ongoing efforts of the police to combat criminal activity in the region.

This encounter highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with organized crime and the risks involved in apprehending dangerous criminals. As investigations continue, local authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and public safety.