4 gang members nabbed after encounter

In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the murder of a local gangster, the police arrested four individuals linked to the notorious Sonu Khatri and Binnu Gujjar gang. The arrests followed a dramatic encounter in village Khankhana near Banga, where two of the accused opened fire on police personnel and were subsequently injured in retaliatory action.

The primary accused, identified as Ishwinder Singh, alias Ishu, a resident of Uchha village, and Aman from Jethpur, both in their 20s, sustained gunshot wounds to their legs after allegedly firing at the police team during an attempted escape. Ishwinder was hit in both legs, while Aman suffered a bullet injury to his right leg. Both are currently under medical supervision.

SSP Mehtab Singh told The Tribune last night that the duo was actively involved in the murder of Satnam Singh, alias Satta, a resident of Uchha village. The case had sent shock waves through the region due to its links with organised crime.

The police also arrested two other associates Abhay Sidhu of Jandiala and Sandeep Kumar, alias Shipa, of Khanpur. All four individuals have confessed to their roles in the murder and other criminal activities, including an attempted murder bid on a local trader in Mandali village, SBS Nagar, on October 29.

Investigations revealed that the accused were allegedly recruited by Jalandhar-based criminal Raju Aulakh, who coordinated with foreign-based gangster Sonu Khatri. The plan was to eliminate the trader, reportedly over extortion-related disputes.

During the operation, law enforcement officials recovered a Glock pistol with four rounds and a .30 bore pistol from the accused. A fresh case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act.

SSP Mehtab Singh emphasized the department’s commitment to dismantling organised crime networks in the region. “This operation is a testament to our resolve to ensure public safety and bring perpetrators of violence to justice,” he stated.

The police continue to investigate the broader network of the gang, with further arrests anticipated in the coming days.