Delhi Police Thwarts Jail-Based Plot to Eliminate Key Murder Witness
The Delhi Police Special Cell has successfully foiled a chilling targeted killing plot orchestrated from behind bars, leading to the arrest of four individuals, including a notorious gangster. The conspiracy aimed to silence a crucial prosecution witness in a high-profile murder case, revealing the audacious reach of criminal networks operating from within prison walls.
Raid Near Hospital Nets Suspect and Weapon
Acting on specific intelligence, police conducted a covert raid near the JPC Hospital in Shastri Park on the night of January 24. During this operation, officers apprehended Adeeb (22), a resident of Chauhan Banger, and recovered a pistol along with five live cartridges from his possession. This initial breakthrough exposed a meticulously planned assassination attempt.
Gangster's Jail Orchestration Unraveled
Investigations revealed that the plot was masterminded by gangster Chennu Pehelwan from inside Mandoli Jail. The conspiracy stemmed from a previous gangland murder in Seelampur last year, where Chennu's gang killed a member named Misbah over suspicions of defection to rival Hashim Baba. A witness who fled the scene was targeted for elimination to obstruct justice in that case.
During interrogation, Adeeb confessed that the weapon was procured specifically to carry out the murder on Chennu's direct instructions. He further disclosed that two accomplices, Farman and Aamir, had been recruited to execute the killing, highlighting the organized nature of the criminal operation.
Complex Payment Trail and Logistics Exposed
Police uncovered a sophisticated logistics and payment system designed to evade detection. Token money for the murder was funneled through a local tea stall in Seelampur, with cash allegedly delivered by Usman, a close aide of Chennu who acted as the facilitator between the jailed gangster and the ground shooters. Adeeb collected the payment from this tea seller, illustrating the gang's use of everyday establishments for illicit activities.
The execution was strategically planned for after Republic Day, but swift police action preempted the attack. Based on Adeeb's information, the Special Cell arrested Farman on January 26 and Usman on January 27. On January 28, Chennu Pehelwan was formally arrested in the case, marking a significant blow to the gang's operations.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
A case has been registered under Sections 55 and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Investigators noted that Chennu is implicated in multiple serious offenses, including murder, extortion, robbery, and criminal conspiracy. DCP, Special Cell, Amit Kaushik confirmed that further investigation is actively underway to uncover any additional links or co-conspirators in this elaborate plot.
This operation underscores the Delhi Police's vigilance in combating organized crime and protecting judicial processes from intimidation, even when threats originate from within correctional facilities.
