Extortion gang member hurt in exchange of fire

An alleged associate of the Mohabbat Randhawa gang, involved in four firing incidents that took place over the past three months, was injured in an exchange of fire with the police near Sarhali on Monday.

The suspect, Jatinder Singh, alias Ajay, a resident of Sarhali, was shot in the leg when he allegedly opened fire at a police team during a checking drive.

SSP Surinder Lamba said teams of the CIA, Tarn Taran, and Sarhali police station were on patrolling duty in the area when they signalled a motorcycle-borne suspect to stop. Instead of complying, Jatinder allegedly opened fire at the police party.

Police personnel retaliated in self-defence, during which a bullet hit the suspect in the leg.

He was later taken to hospital for treatment.

The SSP said Jatinder was allegedly associated with the Mohabbat Randhawa gang infamous for its involvement in extortion cases. Randhawa was linked to Davinder Bambiha and Dony Bal Gang operating from the foreign shores.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that Jatinder was allegedly involved in four firing incidents, the fallout of extortion demands.

Two of these incidents took place under the jurisdiction of the Sarhali police station, while the other two were reported in the Patti police station area.

Separate cases pertaining to the four incidents have been registered at the Sarhali and Patti police stations, the SSP said.

A fresh case has also been registered against Jatinder in connection with opening fire at the police team. The police are now investigating his alleged role in the extortion network and efforts are being made to identify and arrest his other associates.