Crime Branch Nabs Accused After Early Morning Encounter Near Sector 39 Grain Market
Chandigarh Sector 39 Encounter: In a swift and decisive operation, the Chandigarh Crime Branch arrested two shooters involved in the Sector 32 pharmacy firing case following an encounter near the Sector 39 Grain Market on Wednesday morning. Both accused sustained bullet injuries to their legs during the exchange of fire and were taken into custody.
The encounter took place around 6:00 am when a Crime Branch team intercepted a suspicious vehicle during routine checking. Instead of stopping, the occupants allegedly attempted to flee, forcing police personnel to act in self-defence.
Encounter During Routine Checking Leads to Arrest
Shooters Identified as Rahul and Rocky
According to senior police officials, the accused opened fire while trying to escape, prompting retaliatory action by the police. During the encounter, two shooters, identified as Rahul and Rocky, were injured in their legs.
Both were immediately shifted to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 16, where they are currently undergoing treatment under police supervision.
A third accused, Preet, who was allegedly driving the vehicle, was arrested from the spot without injuries.
Sector 32 Pharmacy Firing: What Happened Earlier
Chemist Shop Owner’s Son Narrowly Escapes
The arrests are linked to the recent firing incident at Sevak Pharmacy in Sector 32, which had triggered panic in the area. At the time of the attack, the shop owner’s son, Tanish, was present at the counter and narrowly escaped injury.
Moments after the firing, Tanish informed his family. The shop owner, Jagdish, a resident of Sector 32, later reached the scene and shared crucial details with the police.
CCTV Footage Played Key Role in Identifying Accused
Forensic Evidence Strengthens Case
Police teams from Sector 34 Police Station, the Crime Branch, the Operation Cell, and the District Crime Branch rushed to the pharmacy soon after the incident.
A forensic team recovered one empty cartridge from the scene. CCTV footage from nearby cameras revealed two youths arriving on an Activa scooter, opening fire at the chemist shop, and fleeing immediately. This footage proved instrumental in identifying and tracking the accused.
Gangster Links and Possible Insider Help Under Probe
Interrogation Ongoing
Police officials confirmed that interrogation of the injured shooters and the arrested driver is underway. Investigators are examining the possible involvement of a gangster network behind the attack.
Authorities are also probing allegations of possible assistance from a police personnel, which, if confirmed, could widen the scope of the investigation.
Chandigarh Police Reiterate Zero-Tolerance Policy
Senior officials stated that Chandigarh Police remains committed to maintaining law and order and will take strict action against organized crime and those aiding criminal activities.