An extortion suspect was shot in the leg early this week while allegedly attempting to snatch a police weapon and escape from custody on Madan Mohan Malviya Road in central Amritsar. The incident occurred after Amritsar police arrested two men accused of firing at a businessman’s shop and demanding extortion money.
Arrest and Escape Attempt
Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said the accused, identified as Jashanpreet Singh alias Jashan (19) and Sajanpreet Singh alias Sajan (26), both residents of Veeram village, were arrested from Majitha on Monday. During the arrest, Sajanpreet allegedly attempted to flee and sustained an injury to his right foot.
While being brought back to Amritsar, the police vehicle slowed near Madan Mohan Malviya Road after an animal suddenly crossed the road. Taking advantage of the situation, Jashanpreet allegedly scuffled with the escorting policemen, forcibly opened the rear door, and tried to snatch the official carbine from an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI).
Weapon Snatch and Shooting
According to Bhullar, after grabbing the weapon, Jashanpreet pointed the loaded firearm at the police party. The ASI immediately held the barrel and pushed it downward to prevent the accused from opening fire. During the struggle, one round was discharged, striking Jashanpreet in the left leg. He was immediately shifted to Civil Hospital, Amritsar, for treatment.
Following the incident, police registered a second FIR under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act at the Civil Lines police station.
Background of the Extortion Case
The case began when a few rounds were fired at the shutter of a businessman’s shop on July 1. The shop owner initially refrained from approaching the police and was reluctant to lodge a formal complaint. However, after the incident came to the police’s notice, officials initiated an inquiry and launched a detailed investigation.
During the probe, police found that the businessman had allegedly been receiving extortion calls before the firing incident, suggesting that the attack was intended to intimidate him into paying money. An FIR was registered under relevant provisions of the BNS and the Arms Act.
Bhullar said that using technical surveillance and human intelligence, police identified the accused as Jashanpreet Singh and Sajanpreet Singh. Separate police teams were constituted, and the duo was arrested from Majitha on Monday.
Previous Criminal Record
Preliminary investigation revealed that Jashanpreet Singh has one previous criminal case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act by the STF, SAS Nagar, involving the recovery of 260 grams of heroin.
Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain the larger conspiracy behind the extortion calls and the firing incident, besides identifying any other persons involved.
