Wanted Gangster Ashu Killed in Police Encounter in Moradabad
In a significant development, a wanted sharpshooter affiliated with the notorious Udham Singh gang was killed during a police encounter in the Civil Lines area of Moradabad late on Tuesday. The operation was conducted jointly by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and the Moradabad police, resulting in the elimination of the criminal who was carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 on his head.
Details of the Encounter
The accused, identified as Ashu alias Monty, a resident of Hapur, was intercepted during a coordinated operation involving the STF field unit from Meerut and local police personnel. According to official statements, Ashu opened fire at the police team upon being confronted, which prompted immediate retaliatory action from the authorities.
During the exchange of gunfire, Ashu sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Unfortunately, he later succumbed to his wounds, marking the end of a long and violent criminal career.
Criminal Background and Charges
Amitabh Yash, the Additional Director General (ADG) of Law and Order, provided detailed insights into Ashu's criminal history. He revealed that Ashu was actively wanted in connection with a recent case involving a staggering Rs 5 crore extortion demand from a local businessman, coupled with an attempt to murder charge.
Ashu's criminal record was extensive and alarming, with approximately 36 cases registered against him across multiple districts including Hapur, Meerut, and Ghaziabad. The charges against him ranged from serious offences such as murder and robbery to violations under the Arms Act and the stringent Gangster Act.
Investigations have uncovered that Ashu first entered the criminal justice system in 2010 when he was imprisoned in a murder case. It was during this period behind bars that he established connections with the Udham Singh gang, eventually becoming one of their key operatives.
Recoveries from the Scene
Following the encounter, police authorities conducted a thorough search of the area and made several significant recoveries. Among the items seized were a Swift car, which Ashu was reportedly using, along with an arsenal of weapons.
The recovered weapons included a .32-bore factory-made pistol, a revolver, and a 12-bore gun. Additionally, a substantial quantity of live and spent cartridges was confiscated, highlighting the dangerous nature of the operation and the threat posed by the accused.
This successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Uttar Pradesh to combat organized crime and ensure public safety. The elimination of such a high-profile criminal is expected to disrupt the activities of the Udham Singh gang and bring a measure of relief to the communities affected by their unlawful actions.
