A veteran criminal with more than 24 cases against him was injured in a police encounter in Sambalpur early on Sunday morning after he allegedly opened fire at a police team while attempting to flee.
According to police, Sadar police personnel intercepted Md. Irfan of Sunapali at around 5:45 AM near Sudunga forest on Canal Road under Sadar Police Station limits.
Irfan, who is allegedly involved in over 24 criminal cases, including dacoity, robbery, aluminium wire theft, burglary and narcotics-related offences, was travelling on a black Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle along with two associates.
Accused allegedly opens fire while fleeing
During the interception, police apprehended two of the accused persons. However, Irfan allegedly managed to flee from the spot.
Police said that while escaping, Irfan opened fire at the police team. The personnel then resorted to controlled firing in self-defence.
During the exchange of fire, Irfan sustained a gunshot injury to his left leg.
According to police, the accused fired three rounds, while the police team fired two rounds in retaliation.
Pistol, ammunition recovered
Following the encounter, police recovered a pistol, ammunition and three empty cartridges from the spot.
The motorcycle allegedly used by the accused, bearing registration number OD15 AB 3674, was also seized.
Injured accused shifted to VIMSAR
The injured accused was immediately shifted to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, for medical treatment.
Police have initiated further investigation into the incident and are examining the circumstances surrounding the encounter and the criminal cases allegedly linked to Irfan.
