Delhi Police Special Cell Thwarts Jail-Ordered Assassination Plot Against Key Witness
In a significant breakthrough, the Delhi Police's special cell has successfully foiled a meticulously planned targeted hit on a critical prosecution witness. The chilling plot was allegedly orchestrated from behind the bars of Mandoli Jail, highlighting the audacious reach of organized crime networks. The police have arrested four individuals in connection with the conspiracy, including the alleged mastermind, Irfan alias Chhenu Pehalwan.
Plot to Eliminate Witness and Weaken Case Uncovered
Additional Commissioner of Police Pramod Singh Kushwaha revealed that the arrested group was allegedly plotting to eliminate the witness with the explicit intent of weakening a crucial legal case. For safety and security reasons, the identity of the witness and specific details of the case have been withheld by the authorities. This incident underscores the severe threats faced by individuals cooperating with the judicial process in high-stakes criminal matters.
Operation Details: Raids, Arrests, and Seizures
The police operation commenced on the night of January 24th with a decisive raid conducted near the JPC Hospital in Shastri Park. During this action, officers apprehended 22-year-old Adeeb, a resident of Chauhan Banger. The raid also led to the seizure of a semi-automatic pistol and five live cartridges from his possession.
During interrogation, Adeeb disclosed to investigators that the assassination order had been issued by Irfan, who is currently lodged in jail facing multiple charges of murder and extortion. This revelation pointed to a conspiracy directed from within the prison walls.
Funding and Further Arrests
The investigation uncovered that Usman, described as a close family associate of the accused, allegedly facilitated the routing of "blood money" through a tea stall located in Seelampur. These funds were intended to finance the shooters involved in the plot.
Subsequent follow-up raids conducted on January 26th and 27th resulted in the arrests of Usman and another individual named Farman. The alleged mastermind, Irfan, was formally arrested on January 28th, marking a crucial development in the case.
Modus Operandi and Legal Charges
Police officials provided insights into the methods employed by the accused. Adeeb, identified as the youngest among those arrested, was reportedly lured into the plot with advance payments. Farman, whom Adeeb had met at a drug rehabilitation centre, was supplied with live ammunition to assist in carrying out the murder.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Amit Kaushik stated, "With the recovery of a pistol, 10 live cartridges, and mobile phones, Sections 55 and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have been invoked. This points clearly to an organized criminal conspiracy." The police are now intensively probing the source of the weapon used and are investigating whether other witnesses were also targeted on Irfan's alleged hit list.
Context and Systemic Implications
This case emerges against a backdrop of administrative challenges within the prison system. It is notable that both Tihar and Mandoli jails are currently functioning without a Director General, raising questions about oversight and security protocols.
In the wake of this foiled plot, the special cell has received directives to tighten witness protection measures specifically in matters related to organized crime. This move follows the tragic killing of Rachna Yadav, a prosecution witness in her husband's murder case, highlighting the persistent dangers witnesses face.
The successful intervention by the Delhi Police not only prevented a potential tragedy but also exposes the sophisticated and dangerous networks that can operate from within correctional facilities, demanding heightened vigilance and robust protective mechanisms for those who assist the justice system.
