Chandigarh Realtor Murder: Two Shooters Apprehended in Haryana Following Intense Gunfight
In a dramatic turn of events, two gunmen suspected of involvement in the Wednesday murder of realtor Chamanpreet Singh in Chandigarh managed to evade a citywide police dragnet, only to be cornered and captured in Haryana after a fierce gunfight. The suspects, identified as Rajan alias Piyush Pehalwan and Pritam Shah, both hailing from Punjab, were tracked to a village in Kaithal district, Haryana, thanks in part to a distinctive bag they carried during their escape.
Escape and Capture: A High-Stakes Police Operation
According to police reports, the duo fled Chandigarh following the murder, slipping into Haryana where they were eventually surrounded by law enforcement. When confronted, the suspects allegedly opened fire, leading to a retaliatory shootout that left both injured in the legs. They have since been hospitalized under police custody. During the operation, authorities seized three semi-automatic pistols and ammunition from the individuals.
Key Clue: The Distinctive Bag That Led to Their Downfall
A crucial element in the investigation was a bag with a shop's name prominently stamped across it, which the suspects held onto throughout their escape. CCTV footage captured this bag slung from their getaway motorcycle, providing police with a vital clue. The bag was later found at their hideout in Haryana, enabling officers to trace their movements through surveillance footage and coordinate with Haryana's Special Task Force (STF) in Karnal.
Background and Official Statements
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav confirmed that the state's anti-gangster task force, in coordination with the Karnal STF, arrested the two shooters, who are linked to gangster Lucky Patial of the Bambiha gang. The victim, Chamanpreet alias Chini Kubaheri, was targeted as he was leaving a popular gym in Chandigarh, highlighting the brazen nature of the crime in a public setting.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in combating organized crime across state borders, with police leveraging technology and inter-agency cooperation to bring perpetrators to justice. The successful arrest, despite the suspects' initial escape, demonstrates the effectiveness of modern investigative techniques in tracking down dangerous criminals.
