Wanted Criminal Arrested After Police Encounter In Rourkela

Rourkela: A wanted criminal was arrested after he was injured in an encounter with police in Odisha’s Rourkela on Monday morning.

According to sources, tension prevailed in Khariatola slum in Jhiripani of the city as the history-sheeter, Ajit Oram attempted to forcibly occupy the government land encroached by slum-dweller Banchhanidhi Tanti on Sunday. As Banchhanidhi and others opposed Ajit, the latter fired at them. Banchhanidhi, who sustained bullet injury, died on the spot.

Following the incident, the police formed 4 special teams and launched a search operation to nab Ajit who was absconding. On Monday morning, a police team received information from reliable sources that he was hiding in Hatibandha forest under Jalda police outpost.

As the police conducted a surprise raid in the forest, Ajit fired three rounds at them and attempted to escape. In retaliation fire by the police, Ajit was hit by a bullet on his right leg. The police captured him and rushed him to Rourkela Government Hospital. The police also seized a gun and two live cartridges from his possession. Following treatment, his condition was stated to be stable.

Meanwhile, police have registered a case against Ajit on charges of murder, firing and extortion and started further investigation.