By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: On Tuesday morning, the Patna police eliminated two notorious dacoits during a fierce encounter near Hinduni village in the Phulwari Sharif area of Patna. The exchange of fire ensued as the police pursued the dacoits’ gang. Dozens of rounds were fired from both sides, resulting in the deaths of dacoits identified as Lal Dahin and Vivek, both residents of Karay Parshurai in Nalanda.
In the crossfire, ASI Vivek Prasad from Gaurichak police station sustained injuries. He was rushed to Patna AIIMS, where he is undergoing treatment in the ICU. Reports confirm that the bullet lodged in his back has been successfully removed.
Swift Police Action and Arrests
Following the encounter, a large police team, including Patna City (West) SP Sharath RS, reached the scene. Two dacoits were arrested, and weapons, including pistols, cartridges, and other items, were recovered. A vehicle used by the gang, a pickup truck, was also seized.
The police brought the bodies of the deceased dacoits to the Phulwari Sharif Community Health Centre for post-mortem formalities. Meanwhile, forensic teams collected evidence from the encounter site to assist in the investigation.
Dacoit Gang’s History of Crimes
The slain dacoits were part of a gang involved in numerous robberies across various police jurisdictions in Patna over several years. While two gang members were neutralised and one, Mantu Kumar, was apprehended, several others managed to flee under the cover of darkness. Authorities estimate the gang had 8-10 members, and an extensive search operation is underway to capture the absconding criminals.
Police Statement
City SP (West) Sharath RS stated that the dacoits were heavily armed and initiated continuous firing at the police. In retaliation, the police returned fire, wounding two dacoits fatally. The injured criminals were taken to the Phulwari Sharif Community Health Centre, where they were declared dead on arrival.
He further added that the arrested gang member is under interrogation, which may lead to more insights into the gang’s operations and whereabouts of the fugitives. This encounter is a significant step in curbing organised crime in Patna.
