Panic in Bhikhiwind colony as two gangs exchange fire

A clash between two groups of gangsters at Chela Colony near the border town of Bhikhiwind on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday left residents terrorised. The confrontation, which continued for nearly an hour, created panic in the area. Despite the fact that the DSP Bhikhiwind office, equipped with round-the-clock police security, is located close to the site, police failed to reach the spot during the incident.

The gangsters, armed with pistols, sharp-edged weapons and sticks, challenged one another, opened fire, and managed to flee the area after the clash. Terrified residents remained inside their homes throughout the night. The Bhikhiwind police claimed that local youths have formed several gangs and that such clashes occur frequently in the colony. Many of these gang members are already booked in cases related to drug smuggling, extortion and violent crimes.

ASI Jaspal Singh, the investigating officer in the case, said a case has been registered against Shali Singh, Surinder Singh and Sonu, alias Lamma of Chela Colony; Rajbir Singh, Gurlal Singh, alias Lali Gainda, and Jassa Singh, alias Jassa, of Bhikhiwind; along with eight unidentified persons under Sections 109, 194(2), 191(3), and 190 of the BNS, as well as Sections 25, 27, 54, and 59 of the Arms Act. He added that efforts are underway to ascertain whether anyone was injured.

ASI Singh said the gangsters have formed rival groups that frequently disturb the peace by engaging in violent confrontations and possessing illegal weapons. Residents have expressed concern over the police’s failure to control recurring hooliganism in the colony.