Delhi: A suspected gangster wanted in connection with recent extortion and firing incidents in central Delhi was injured during a police encounter late Monday night after he allegedly opened fire on a team attempting to arrest him, officials said.
The accused, identified as Pawan Pehalwan, is believed to be the key suspect in a series of criminal cases registered in the Paharganj and Nabi Karim police station areas. Acting on intelligence regarding his whereabouts, personnel from the Central District Police launched an operation to intercept him.
According to police, the situation escalated when the accused allegedly fired at the raiding team in an attempt to evade arrest. Officers returned fire, during which Pehalwan sustained a gunshot wound. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he is undergoing treatment under police security.
Investigators said the operation was planned following specific information about the suspect’s movement. No police personnel were reported injured during the exchange of fire.
Delhi Police described Pehalwan as a habitual offender with several criminal cases already registered against him. He is suspected of being involved in organised extortion activities and incidents of firing that had created panic among traders and local residents in parts of central Delhi over the past few weeks.
Officials said evidence connected to the recent extortion cases is being examined, and investigators are also trying to determine whether the accused was operating alone or as part of a larger criminal network.
Police have recovered material from the spot and are continuing the investigation. Further legal action will be initiated after the accused’s medical condition stabilises, officials added.
