In a dramatic turn of events in Firozabad's Tundla area on Friday, a high-stakes police operation against a wanted criminal nearly turned fatal for law enforcement officers. An IPS officer and a police inspector were shot directly in the chest during an intense shootout but miraculously survived thanks to their protective gear.
Narrow Escape for Law Enforcement
The encounter unfolded when a joint team comprising Delhi Police personnel and local police officers cornered the fugitive criminal Avinash, who also goes by the alias Janu. The authorities had been tracking Avinash, who carried a substantial reward of Rs 50,000 for his capture, based on surveillance intelligence.
Violent Confrontation During Arrest Attempt
As the police team moved in to apprehend the wanted criminal, Avinash responded with gunfire instead of surrender. Two bullets struck the operation leaders – IPS officer Melvin Varghese and Inspector Ramkumar – with both projectiles hitting their chest area. The situation could have ended tragically had it not been for the bulletproof vests both officers were wearing, which successfully stopped the rounds and prevented fatal injuries.
Criminal Background and Recent Activities
Avinash, a resident of Malviya Nagar in Delhi, has been evading authorities since 22 January following an alleged attack on a beat constable in Safdarjung Enclave in south-west Delhi. During that incident, he reportedly assaulted the police officer and snatched his service pistol.
Delhi Police records reveal that Avinash is a hardened criminal with a history of illegal activities dating back to 2012. Investigators have disclosed that his initial descent into crime was reportedly motivated by the need to fund his girlfriend's expensive lifestyle, with his first robbery occurring brazenly outside a police station itself.
Pattern of Criminal Behavior
Since that initial offense, Avinash has allegedly been involved in numerous criminal activities, establishing himself as a persistent threat to public safety. His criminal trajectory shows a pattern of escalating violence and confrontation with law enforcement authorities.
Current Status and Investigation
The accused criminal is currently receiving medical treatment under heavy police guard, ensuring he remains in custody while recovering from any injuries sustained during the encounter. Authorities have initiated further investigation into the incident and Avinash's broader criminal network.
This incident highlights both the dangers faced by police personnel in high-risk operations and the critical importance of protective equipment in saving lives during violent confrontations. The successful intervention of bulletproof vests in this case prevented what could have been a devastating loss for the police force and their families.
