A joint police operation led to the dramatic arrest of a wanted thief in Varanasi early Sunday morning. The incident involved an exchange of gunfire between officers and the suspect.
Early Morning Encounter Leads to Arrest
Police teams from Mardah and Birno were conducting routine night patrols when they noticed a suspicious individual near Govindpur Keerat. The officers immediately grew alert.
Suspicious Behavior Triggers Confrontation
Upon seeing the police, the man attempted to run away. He then opened fire at the approaching officers, forcing them to respond in self-defense.
During the brief exchange, the accused sustained bullet injuries to both legs. Police quickly secured the area and provided medical assistance.
Recovery of Stolen Items and Weapon
After neutralizing the threat, officers searched the suspect. They recovered a stolen motorcycle from his possession. They also found a country-made firearm along with several live cartridges.
Identity of the Accused Revealed
The arrested individual was identified as Lal Babu Maurya, a resident of Bankakhas in Kasimabad. Police confirmed he carried a cash reward of twenty-five thousand rupees for his capture.
Previous Escape from Custody
Ghazipur CO Anubhav Rajarashi provided crucial background information. Maurya had previously been arrested on January 9th along with an accomplice named Puneet Rai.
After their court appearance, authorities transferred both men to the district jail. Maurya managed to escape from the jail premises that same day, remaining at large until this encounter.
Medical Treatment and Investigation
Police rushed the injured suspect to a nearby hospital for treatment. His condition is reported as stable under medical supervision.
Authorities continue their investigation into the full scope of Maurya's criminal activities. They are also examining how he managed to escape from judicial custody last month.
The successful operation demonstrates improved coordination between different police units in the region. Local residents have expressed relief at the arrest of this fugitive criminal.
