Deoria, Uttar Pradesh: A wanted criminal carrying a ₹25,000 reward was arrested following a late-night police encounter in Deoria district on Thursday.
Police identified the accused as Azhar Ansari. He was reportedly wanted in a case registered under the Uttar Pradesh Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act.
During the exchange of fire, Ansari sustained a bullet injury to his left leg in what police described as retaliatory firing. He was later taken to a government medical college for treatment.
Police Set Up Vehicle-Checking Operation
According to police, officers from Bhatpar Rani Police Station received information about the suspect.
A team then started a vehicle-checking operation near Chanuki Mod.
During the checking, police allegedly tried to stop a suspicious motorcycle rider. The rider reportedly ignored the signal and fled from the spot.
Police from Lar Police Station were subsequently alerted and joined the operation.
Suspect Allegedly Opened Fire
A joint police team reportedly set up a blockade near Kharwania Mod.
According to officials, the suspect tried to escape after realizing that police had surrounded him.
However, he allegedly lost control of his motorcycle and fell on the road.
Police claimed that after falling, the accused opened fire at the police team using a country-made pistol.
The officers then allegedly fired in self-defense, hitting him in the left leg.
Police overpowered and arrested him before taking him to the hospital for treatment.
Police Recover Weapon and Motorcycle
During the operation, police claimed to have recovered several items from the accused.
The reported recoveries include:
- One country-made pistol
- One live cartridge
- One empty cartridge case
- One Hero Splendor motorcycle
Police said the recovered items would form part of the ongoing investigation.
Accused Identified as Azhar Ansari
During interrogation, police identified the accused as Azhar Ansari, son of Ahmad Ansari.
He is a resident of Matiyara Jagdish village under the Lar Police Station area.
According to police, Ansari had been absconding in connection with earlier criminal cases.
A reward of ₹25,000 had reportedly been announced for information leading to his arrest.
Multiple Cases Reported Against Accused
Police said that several cases had already been registered against Ansari.
These reportedly include cases under the:
- Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act
- Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act
- Arms Act
The latest case relates to the alleged firing at the police team during the encounter.
Further Investigation Underway
Police have registered an additional case against the accused under charges that reportedly include attempt to murder and relevant provisions of the Arms Act.
Ansari is currently receiving medical treatment for his leg injury.
Further legal proceedings are underway, while police continue to investigate the circumstances of the encounter and the accused’s previous criminal cases.
