In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the Moga district of Punjab, a 45-year-old man was brutally shot dead by unidentified assailants on Wednesday evening. The victim, identified as Gurpreet Singh, also known as Gopi, was ambushed near his residence in the Dina Nagar area of Baghapurana. The attackers unleashed a hail of bullets, firing between 15 to 20 rounds at close range before fleeing the scene.
A Brazen Attack in a Residential Area
The incident occurred around 6:30 PM on May 29, 2024, when Gurpreet Singh was returning home. According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police reports, the assailants, who were lying in wait, opened fire on him near a local shop. The ferocity of the attack is evident from the sheer number of rounds fired. Gurpreet Singh sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. The area, typically bustling with evening activity, was thrown into chaos following the gunfire.
Senior police officials, including Moga Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) J Elanchezhian, swiftly arrived at the crime scene. Forensic teams cordoned off the area to collect crucial evidence, including empty bullet casings. The police have registered a case and initiated a comprehensive investigation, launching a massive manhunt to nab the perpetrators.
Family Points Finger at Political Rivalry
In the immediate aftermath of the killing, the victim's family has come forward with serious allegations. They have pointed towards political rivalry as the primary motive behind the cold-blooded murder. Gurpreet Singh's relatives claim he had no known criminal background or personal enmities that could have led to such a violent end. Instead, they suspect the involvement of political opponents, suggesting the attack was a calculated move linked to local political dynamics.
The family's allegations have added a significant dimension to the case, prompting the police to explore all angles, including the political one. Authorities have assured a thorough probe and stated that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the culprits to justice. The incident has sparked fear and anger among local residents, raising concerns about law and order in the region.
Police Investigation and Public Reaction
The Moga police are actively pursuing several leads. They are scanning CCTV footage from cameras installed in the vicinity and questioning potential witnesses. SSP J Elanchezhian has appealed to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation, assuring confidentiality. The police are also delving into the victim's background to verify the family's claims and understand if there were any undisclosed threats.
This brazen daylight murder has reignited debates on public safety in Punjab. Opposition parties have been quick to criticize the ruling government, questioning the efficacy of the law and order machinery. The incident in Baghapurana is seen as a test for the local administration, with pressure mounting to deliver swift results and restore a sense of security among the citizens.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Gurpreet Singh. His family demands immediate action and justice, hoping the police will quickly unravel the conspiracy behind the attack. The case remains a top priority for the Moga district police, who are determined to solve it and demonstrate that such acts of violence will not go unpunished.
