Moga: In a major breakthrough in the February 10 shooting of two migrant labourers, Moga Police apprehended both accused following a brief exchange of fire in the Ghall Kalan area. One of the suspects sustained a bullet injury during the operation and has been admitted to hospital, while the other was taken into custody and is being interrogated.
The joint action was carried out by Moga district police along with the CIA staff after receiving specific intelligence inputs about the whereabouts of the accused. Officials said the two men had allegedly opened fire at factory workers from Bihar earlier this month, leaving them injured and triggering panic in the area.
According to police sources, teams had been tracking the suspects since the incident. Acting on a tip-off, officers moved to cordon off the area where the accused were believed to be hiding. As the police closed in, the suspects reportedly fired at the team in an attempt to escape.
During retaliatory action, one of the accused, identified as Jobanpreet, was hit in the leg. He was immediately overpowered and later shifted to Civil Hospital for treatment. The second suspect, Akashdeep, allegedly tried to flee but was caught after a brief chase.
Authorities said a motorcycle and a firearm believed to have been used in the attack were recovered from the spot. Further forensic examination of the weapon is underway.
Police officials indicated that preliminary investigation suggests the shooting may have been carried out at the direction of a foreign-based handler with the intention of disturbing peace in the state. However, they added that all angles are being thoroughly examined.
Both accused remain in police custody, and investigators are probing whether others were involved in the conspiracy. Security has been tightened in sensitive areas as part of precautionary measures.
The February 10 incident had raised concerns among migrant workers in the district. With the arrest of the suspects, police say they are hopeful of uncovering the full network behind the attack.
