Tension gripped Hardoi’s Sen Paschim area as a high-stakes police chase turned into a blazing gun battle, resulting in the capture of two dangerous fugitives. The incident occurred in the wee hours when patrolling officers intercepted Ankit Yadav and Shubham alias Guddu, both with hefty police rewards totaling Rs 25,000.
The criminals, notorious for a string of violent robberies, refused to surrender and unleashed a barrage of bullets at the law enforcers. Undeterred, the police team retaliated with precision fire, striking both men in their lower limbs. Within minutes, the motorcycle-borne assailants were subdued and arrested on the spot.
Police revealed that 22-year-old Ankit from Kharela village was wanted for Rs 15,000 for his role in armed hold-ups, while 23-year-old Shubham’s Rs 10,000 reward stemmed from gunpoint extortions. The seizure included illegal pistols, ammunition, and the getaway bike, providing crucial evidence for ongoing cases.
Hailing from Sandila tehsil, the pair had evaded capture for months, terrorizing local merchants and villagers. SP Neera Singh praised SHO Hariom Singh’s squad for their swift action, noting it as part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal syndicates. Treated for injuries, the accused now face stringent charges that could lead to lengthy imprisonment.
Community leaders expressed relief, pointing to a decline in street crimes following recent police successes. As interrogations deepen, authorities anticipate more arrests from the duo’s accomplices, signaling a turning point in Hardoi’s battle against organized crime.