In a dramatic turn of events in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli district, alleged gangster Haji Firoz Khan barricaded himself inside his residence on Saturday, claiming an immediate threat to his life from the state police. The 50-something-year-old man chained himself, rigged a noose, and installed multiple CCTV cameras, while posting live video updates every thirty minutes to social media.
Police Dismiss Actions as "Mere Theatrics"
Senior police officials have brushed off Khan's actions as a staged performance. According to Shamli Superintendent of Police NP Singh, Khan has been posting similar "updates" on his social media since Wednesday. The police claim these posts are an attempt to affirm his well-being while intermittently warning that any arrest attempt would lead to his suicide. SP Singh stated that Khan is using online videos to obstruct police and administrative work, issuing criminal threats against official proceedings and levelling false allegations against officials.
Background: Seized Properties and Pending Cases
This bizarre episode in Jhinjhana town follows significant police action against the gangster. On December 25 last year, local police seized 14 properties worth Rs 30 crore belonging to Khan under section 14 (1) of the Gangsters Act. He was listed as absconding in police records at the time. However, in one of his recent video clips, Khan claimed that a court had stayed his arrest and that no police action should be taken against him.
SP Singh revealed that Khan had previously maintained his own social media cell, which he is now using to make unsubstantiated accusations. The police have asserted that legal action against the gangster will continue despite his "online stunts." The officer further detailed that Khan has 22 criminal cases registered against him across the region, including serious charges of rape and murder.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Standoff
The situation remains a tense standoff between law enforcement and the accused. While Khan uses social media to broadcast his defiance and fear, the police are firm on their course of legal action. The authorities have made it clear that his dramatic displays will not deter the ongoing proceedings related to the seized assets and the multitude of cases pending against him. The episode highlights the complex challenges police face with accused individuals using digital platforms to influence narratives and potentially intimidate officials.
