In a powerful testament to their unwavering courage and dedication, thirteen officers from the Delhi Police's elite Special Cell have been honored with the prestigious Police Medal for Gallantry. These bravehearts stood as an impenetrable wall between the capital and chaos, facing Kevlar-shredding gunfire during multiple high-stakes encounters that neutralized some of the most dangerous terrorists operating in the region.
DND Flyway Encounter: Neutralizing a Hizbul Mujahideen Commander
The first of these critical operations unfolded near the bustling DND Flyway toll plaza in Mayur Vihar, a location typically congested with daily commuter traffic. Here, a three-man team led by Additional Commissioner of Police Pramod Singh Kushwah, along with Sub-Inspectors Rajeev Kumar and Shibu R S, intercepted Javed Ahmed Mattu.
Mattu was a senior commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen, classified under the A++ category and carrying a substantial bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head. Hailing from the Kashmir Valley, he was wanted for the brutal killings of five security personnel and a series of audacious terror attacks utilizing rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices.
As the Special Cell team closed in, the air erupted with indiscriminate gunfire. A bullet struck Kushwah, its lethal force miraculously halted by the life-saving combination of metal and Kevlar in his ballistic vest. Despite the intense impact, the 'Special Three' pressed forward with remarkable resolve, cornering and overpowering Mattu in a display of raw courage that has since become a benchmark for officers within the department.
Tughlaqabad Gunfight: Confronting an ISIS-Linked Operative
The vigilance of the Special Cell extended from the borders of Kashmir to radicalized cells of global terror networks. In the historic precinct of Tughlaqabad, Inspector Manoj, Sub-Inspector Anshu Chaudhary, and Head Constable Aleem Ahmad engaged in a desperate gunfight with Rizwan Ali.
Rizwan had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and was actively sought by the National Investigation Agency. Under the direction of handlers rooted in the Pakistani deep state, his module had already tested improvised explosive devices and conducted reconnaissance of sensitive targets across Mumbai, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
In Tughlaqabad, Rizwan appeared prepared for 'martyrdom' and opened fire on the officers after they intercepted him. Saved by their bullet-proof vests, the men in uniform did not retreat, demonstrating extraordinary bravery as they managed to apprehend Rizwan, thereby thwarting potential large-scale attacks.
Mayur Vihar Operation: Tackling Khalistan Tiger Force Recruits
The final layer of the city's defence was rigorously tested by recruits linked to Canada-based designated terrorists. Near Mayur Vihar, a four-man police unit comprising Inspector Amit Nara and Sub-Inspectors Brajpal Singh, Satish Kumar, and Udham Singh intercepted two operatives working for Arsh Dalla of the Khalistan Tiger Force, a designated terrorist organization, following a brief exchange of fire.
Additionally, another team of three policemen played a crucial role in apprehending two more henchmen of this gangster-turned-international terrorist. All these officers were duly recognized and awarded on the momentous occasion of Republic Day, highlighting their instrumental contributions to national security.
A Legacy of Valor and Commitment
These encounters underscore the relentless efforts and supreme sacrifices made by the Delhi Police Special Cell in safeguarding the nation's capital from grave threats. Their actions not only prevented potential tragedies but also reinforced the principles of justice and security that form the bedrock of our Republic. The awarding of the Police Medal for Gallantry serves as a fitting tribute to their heroism, inspiring future generations of law enforcement officers to uphold the highest standards of duty and courage.
