Kaithal, Haryana: A Kaithal police encounter late Thursday night ended with the arrest of an alleged drug smuggler who police say opened fire on an Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) team. The accused, identified as Sandeep, suffered a gunshot injury to his leg during the operation. Police also arrested four other suspects and recovered 48.35 grams of heroin.
Police Intercept Suspected Drug Smugglers
Police said the ANC team received specific information about suspected drug smugglers travelling in a vehicle near Faral village. Acting on the tip-off, officers set up a checkpoint to intercept the vehicle.
When the team signalled the vehicle to stop, the suspects allegedly rammed the police vehicle. They then tried to escape from the spot. Police quickly chased the vehicle and managed to stop it.
Officers arrested Amit, Deepak, Vishal, and Gurdeep at the scene. During the search, they recovered 48.35 grams of heroin. However, Sandeep escaped into nearby agricultural fields.
Search Operation Leads to Encounter
Police immediately launched a search operation in the surrounding area. Around 11 p.m., the ANC team traced Sandeep near Faral Canal in the Pundri area.
According to police, Sandeep opened fire when officers tried to arrest him. One bullet struck the bulletproof jacket worn by ANC in-charge Pradeep Kumar. The protective gear prevented any injury.
Police responded to the firing. Sandeep suffered a gunshot wound to his leg during the exchange. Officers then overpowered him and took him into custody.
Cases Registered Against the Accused
Police shifted the injured accused to a nearby hospital for treatment. He remains under police supervision.
Following the Kaithal police encounter, authorities registered cases under the NDPS Act and attempt to murder. Police also booked the accused for allegedly attacking the police team and damaging the police vehicle during the operation.
Investigation Continues
Investigators are now examining the source of the seized heroin. They are also checking whether the accused have links to a larger interstate drug trafficking network.
Police said they will continue the investigation and question all five accused. Officials added that more arrests or recoveries could follow if fresh evidence emerges. They also reiterated their commitment to strengthening anti-drug operations across Haryana and taking strict action against organised drug trafficking.
