In a swift and decisive operation, the Chandauli police have successfully dismantled a gang of highway looters who had been preying on truck drivers by impersonating women along the highways. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, four members of the gang were apprehended during an early Monday morning encounter, with one of the accused sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg in the exchange of fire.
Details of the Operation
According to Chandauli Circle Officer (Sadar) Devendra Kumar, police teams from the Chandauli Police Station and the Special Operations Group (SOG) moved into action after receiving a tip-off about the presence of highway robbers in the Bhagwan Talab area. The teams swiftly cordoned off the locality to prevent the suspects from escaping.
Upon being intercepted, the miscreants reportedly opened fire on the police team. In the ensuing retaliatory action, one of the accused, identified as Upendra Yadav from Mohaniya in Bihar, was injured in the leg and subsequently taken into custody along with his associates. After nabbing him, the police combed the area and arrested Manjay Kumar, Bahadur Thathera, and Mustafa of Saiyadraja in Chandauli. A firearm and cartridges were seized from the accused.
Modus Operandi Revealed
During interrogation, the accused reportedly revealed that they operated as a coordinated gang, targeting commuters and vehicle drivers on highways and in secluded stretches. Their method involved disguising themselves as women or seeking assistance under the pretext of asking for directions. Once a vehicle was halted, they would overpower the driver and loot cash, mobile phones, and other valuables.
They further confessed to having targeted Gyanendra Tiwari on May 17 near Bhagwanpur Canal, from whom they allegedly looted Rs 42,000 in cash. The proceeds of the robberies were shared among gang members, and they frequently changed locations to avoid detection and evade arrest.
Police Vigilance
The successful operation highlights the vigilance and quick response of the Chandauli police in tackling highway crime. The police have urged commuters to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity. Further investigation is underway to uncover any other crimes committed by the gang.
