Hathras (Uttar Pradesh): Hathras witnessed intense gunfire early Monday morning as the Special Operations Group (SOG) and Sadabad Police engaged in an encounter with a wanted shooter carrying a reward of Rs 25,000, accused in the brutal murder of an Army man.
The accused, identified as Hemant, allegedly opened fire on the police team during the operation. In retaliation, the police shot him in the leg, leaving him injured. He was immediately taken to a hospital and admitted for treatment.
Soldier Shot Dead on February 5
The encounter is linked to the murder of Army personnel Akhilesh Chaudhary, who was gunned down on February 5 near Chandra Farm House on the Agra-Aligarh National Highway.
According to police sources, Akhilesh was surrounded and shot at by assailants arriving in an Eco car and on a motorcycle. He succumbed to injuries on the spot.
Motive: Anger Over Love Marriage
Investigators revealed that the murder was allegedly planned due to Akhilesh’s love marriage with a girl from the same village, which reportedly angered the girl’s family. Police believe the family disapproved of the marriage and orchestrated the killing as an act of revenge.
Weapons and Stolen Bike Recovered
During the encounter, police recovered several items from the accused, including:
- A stolen motorcycle
- A .315 bore country-made pistol
- One live cartridge
- One empty shell
Four Accused Already Arrested
Police officials confirmed that four accused have already been arrested and sent to jail — two by Hathras Police and two by Haryana Police. A manhunt is underway to trace and arrest the remaining absconding suspects.
Widow Met Chief Minister Seeking Justice
Meanwhile, the wife of the slain soldier, Nidhi, had earlier met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on February 11 during a public grievance meeting, demanding strict action against those responsible for her husband’s murder.
Police stated that further investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected soon.
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