Youths open fire at car wash centre over money dispute

Panic spread near the Tanda bypass on Monday when a group of youths allegedly opened fire at the Nona Car Wash Centre located in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar locality in Hoshiarpur, reportedly over a monetary dispute. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

According to initial information, armed youths arrived at the car wash centre and fired multiple shots while several people were present on the premises. Sources revealed that the confrontation stemmed from Rs 15,000 transaction between two parties.

Ajay Yadav, a resident of Mohalla Neel Kanth, who was at the car wash centre at the time, alleged that he had earlier demanded the return of Rs 15,000 from Haipa, a resident of Davida Ahirana. He claimed that following this, Haipa arrived with 10-12 accomplices armed with sharp weapons and pistols. "They attacked me and fired about three shots," Yadav said, adding that he managed to escape without injury.

Upon receiving information, SHO Model Town Police Station, Gursahib Singh, reached the spot with a police team. He confirmed that two bullet casings were recovered from the scene. Police also seized an Activa scooter believed to belong to one of the attackers.

Local councillor Nawab stated that he rushed to the location after learning about the gunfire. He immediately informed the police and helped ensure the situation did not escalate further.

District Police Chief SSP Sandeep Kumar Malik said that the concerned DSP and police teams promptly initiated an investigation after the incident came to light. "The accused have been identified and will be arrested soon. Strict legal action will be taken against all those involved," he assured.