New Delhi: Two suspected gunmen, including a juvenile, believed to be associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi criminal network, were arrested following a late-night encounter with Delhi Police in the outer parts of the capital, officials said on Thursday.
The operation was carried out by the North District Anti-Narcotics Team after they received specific intelligence regarding the movement of the suspects, identified as Deepak and a minor. Police said the duo was wanted in connection with recent firing incidents reported from Paschim Vihar in West Delhi and the West Vinod Nagar area in East Delhi.
Acting on the tip-off, the police team laid a trap near Hiranaki Mod to intercept the suspects. According to officials, when the two arrived at the spot, they attempted to flee and allegedly fired at the police personnel.
The police returned fire, resulting in a brief exchange. During the encounter, Deepak suffered a bullet injury to his leg. A police constable was also struck by a bullet, but escaped unharmed as he was wearing a protective bulletproof jacket.
Both suspects were overpowered and taken into custody after the firing stopped. Police recovered two country-made pistols, several live rounds, and a scooter that was allegedly used during the crimes.
The injured accused was taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The juvenile has been taken into custody in accordance with the Juvenile Justice Act, police said.
Officials added that preliminary investigations suggest both accused were operating under the directions of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and had a role in multiple shooting incidents across different parts of the city. Further investigation is underway to trace their wider network and identify additional accomplices.
