STF Eliminates Notorious Shooter Banarasi Yadav in Varanasi Encounter
In a dramatic early morning operation, the Special Task Force (STF) gunned down notorious shooter Banarasi Yadav near Bariyasanpur along the Ring Road under the Chaubepur police station in Varanasi. The encounter occurred during an exchange of fire in the wee hours of Wednesday, marking a significant breakthrough in a high-profile criminal case.
Background of the Wanted Criminal
Banarasi Yadav had been on the radar of police and STF authorities following his alleged involvement in the murder of builder Mahendra Gautam. On August 21, 2025, Yadav, along with two accomplices, reportedly sprayed bullets at Gautam in front of his house in the Sarnath area, leading to Gautam's death. In response, the police had announced a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to Yadav's capture.
Details of the Encounter Operation
Acting on a credible tip-off about Yadav's movement along the Ghazipur-Varanasi highway, a dedicated team from the STF Varanasi field unit swiftly cordoned off the area near Bariyasanpur along Ring Road. The personnel began meticulously monitoring passers-by as part of their strategic drive. When STF officers signaled Yadav to stop, he defiantly opened fire, prompting an immediate retaliatory response from the force.
During the ensuing gunfight, Yadav sustained critical bullet injuries. The STF team promptly rushed him to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, doctors at the facility declared him dead upon arrival, confirming the end of his criminal reign.
Recoveries and Criminal History
From the scene, STF officials recovered two pistols and a large quantity of cartridges from Yadav's possession. His criminal record was extensive, with 21 cases registered against him, including charges of murder. A resident of Gaurhat in the Karanda area of Ghazipur, Yadav had been active in the crime world since 2002, committing offenses across Varanasi, Ghazipur, and Sonbhadra. He had also been booked under the stringent Goonda Act and Gangsters Act, highlighting his notoriety.
Investigation into the Builder Murder Case
Police investigations revealed that Yadav and his two associates were hired to kill builder Mahendra Gautam by an old acquaintance, Jogendra Banarasi alias Fattu of Ghazipur. The motive stemmed from a dispute over 29 biswa of land valued at approximately Rs 60 crore. This contract killing underscores the deep-seated criminal networks operating in the region.
In related developments, one of Yadav's accomplices, Arvind Banarasi alias Fauji of Ghazipur, was arrested by Sarnath police on January 4. Authorities have identified the other associate as Vishal of Ghazipur and assured that his arrest is imminent. The investigation also uncovered that Yadav procured weapons from Mohammad Mukim of Munger in Bihar, adding an interstate dimension to the case.
Current Status of Other Accused
Apart from Arvind Banarasi, several other individuals implicated in the murder case are currently in jail. These include Jogendra Banarasi, Sampurnanand Shukla of Sarnath, Shyam Rajbhar alias Rekha Pradhan, and Mohammad Mukim. Their incarceration reflects ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle the criminal syndicate involved in this heinous crime.
This encounter not only removes a dangerous criminal from the streets but also serves as a stern warning to other offenders in the area. The STF's proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to maintaining law and order in Varanasi and surrounding regions.
