Delhi Police Head Constable Attacked, Service Pistol Snatched During Patrolling in Safdarjung Enclave
In a shocking incident that highlights the risks faced by law enforcement personnel, a head constable of the Delhi Police was allegedly attacked and robbed of his service pistol by two unidentified men during routine patrolling at Rose Garden in Safdarjung Enclave last Thursday. The brazen assault occurred in broad daylight, raising serious concerns about public safety and police vulnerability in the national capital.
Uniformed Officer Targeted During Daytime Patrol
According to the detailed complaint filed by head constable Rajkumar, who is posted at the Safdarjung Enclave police station in southwest Delhi, the incident unfolded around 2pm when he was conducting his uniformed beat patrol. Some concerned citizens informed the officer about two suspicious individuals who had entered the bushes near the walking track inside Rose Garden and were reportedly consuming intoxicants.
The dedicated constable immediately responded to the information and reached the specified spot around 2.10pm. There, he encountered two men aged approximately 35-40 years who appeared to be heavily intoxicated. When Rajkumar attempted to question them about their activities, the situation escalated dramatically as both men allegedly began verbally abusing the officer before launching a physical attack.
Violent Confrontation and Weapon Snatching
During the violent altercation, one of the accused—described as strongly built and wearing a distinctive red and white tracksuit—forcibly snatched the head constable's government-issued pistol from his waist. In a terrifying escalation, the assailant then pointed the weapon directly at Rajkumar and attempted to fire.
Displaying remarkable presence of mind and quick reflexes, the head constable managed to push the armed suspect's hand aside at the crucial moment. This defensive action narrowly prevented serious injury as the bullet discharged in another direction. The narrow escape underscores the life-threatening nature of the confrontation that unfolded in what is typically considered a peaceful public garden.
Threats and Dramatic Escape
Following the failed shooting attempt, the armed suspect threatened to kill the police officer if he attempted to follow them. The two men then fled the scene using different escape routes—one suspect disappeared into the dense bushes of the garden while the other ran toward Outer Ring Road near the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Delhi campus.
The armed individual, still in possession of the stolen service pistol, allegedly stopped a passing motorcyclist on the service road by threatening him with the weapon. The terrified motorcyclist was forced to provide a lift, and the suspect fled toward the Hauz Khas area, leaving behind a shaken police officer and numerous unanswered questions about security protocols.
Broader Implications for Police Safety
This alarming incident raises significant questions about:
- Police officer safety during routine patrols in public spaces
- Weapon security protocols for uniformed personnel
- Public safety concerns when service weapons fall into criminal hands
- Response mechanisms for similar incidents in crowded urban areas
The attack on a uniformed police officer in a prominent Delhi location during daylight hours represents a serious challenge to law enforcement authority and public confidence. As investigations continue to identify and apprehend the suspects, this case serves as a stark reminder of the daily dangers faced by police personnel while performing their duties to protect citizens.
