In a significant development, Punjab Police on Tuesday neutralized a key suspect linked to the brutal murder of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) sarpanch Jarmal Singh. The accused, identified as Harnur alias Noor, was gunned down during an exchange of fire with police forces in the Bhikhiwind area of Tarn Taran district.
The Fatal Encounter and Police Operation
According to senior police officials, the encounter unfolded when specialized teams from the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) and the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) were conducting patrols based on specific intelligence inputs. The information suggested that a wanted shooter was traveling on a motorcycle in the area.
When the police teams attempted to intercept the individual, later identified as Harnur alias Noor, he abandoned his bike and immediately opened fire on the officers. The police were compelled to retaliate in self-defense, leading to a fierce gunfight.
During the crossfire, one policeman was struck by a bullet but survived the injury due to his bulletproof jacket. Noor, however, sustained critical gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries. A pistol was recovered from his possession at the scene.
Noor's Criminal Network and Role in the Murder
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Snehdeep Sharma addressed the media, revealing crucial details about the slain accused. Noor, a resident of Kathunangal, was described as a crucial field operative working for foreign-based gangsters Prabh Dasuwal and Afridi.
DIG Sharma stated that Noor played a pivotal role in the reconnaissance and planning of the attack that killed Jarmal Singh. The sarpanch of Valtoha village was attending a wedding ceremony at a resort on January 4 when two unidentified gunmen entered and shot him in the head.
Prabh Dasuwal, the gangster based abroad, had publicly claimed responsibility for the killing in a social media post. "His exact role in the execution is still under investigation in coordination with Amritsar police," the DIG added, indicating the probe is ongoing.
Broader Conspiracy and Ongoing Investigation
The police investigation has uncovered that Harnur alias Noor was part of a dangerous criminal module with wider ambitions. This module was also involved in a conspiracy to assassinate Congress leader Harman Sekhon in Tarn Taran.
In connection with that plot, the police had previously arrested four shooters. The elimination of Noor is seen as a major blow to the network operating under the guidance of foreign-based gangsters.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are continuing at a rapid pace. Critical leads have been shared with other agencies to systematically dismantle the entire network supporting these cross-border criminal activities. The focus remains on identifying and apprehending all individuals involved in the planning and execution of the sarpanch's murder.
