Accused in GujCTOC Case Shot by Police During Custody Escape Attempt in Gujarat
In a dramatic incident on Friday, an accused wanted under the Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime (GujCTOC) Act was shot in the arm by a state monitoring cell (SMC) team after he allegedly attempted to escape from police custody. The event unfolded near Shamlaji in Aravalli district, highlighting the risks involved in transporting high-profile detainees.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The accused, identified as Sukhlal Dangi, a 37-year-old resident of Dhasa in Rajasthan's Udaipur district, was injured in the firing. He was subsequently admitted to Himmatnagar Civil Hospital for medical treatment. Police officials reported that Dangi, also known as Shakaji Dangi, had been arrested by the SMC in Rajasthan in connection with a GujCTOC case linked to organised prohibition offences.
During the transit from Rajasthan to Gujarat, near Shamlaji, Dangi allegedly tried to flee and attacked the police personnel escorting him. In response, the SMC team opened fire in what they described as an act of self-defence. Inspector Bhavesh Rathod issued a warning before firing a single round that struck Dangi on his right bicep.
Medical Condition and Hospitalization
Following the shooting, Dangi was first taken to the Shamlaji Community Health Centre (CHC) for initial care. He was later shifted to Himmatnagar Civil Hospital for further treatment. Hospital sources indicated that he arrived at the emergency department around 1:08 PM on Friday.
Medical examinations, including an X-ray and sonography, were conducted. Doctors discovered a 2.2 cm entry-exit wound approximately 10 cm above the elbow on his right arm. His condition is currently stated to be stable, and he remains under close medical observation.
Police Statements and Criminal Background
Superintendent of Police (SMC) Mayur Chavda provided additional context, revealing that Dangi has an extensive criminal record. He is involved in 36 prohibition-related offences and was a wanted accused in the GujCTOC case under investigation by the SMC.
Chavda explained, "An SMC team went to Rajasthan to apprehend him. He was arrested in Udaipur and was being brought to Gandhinagar when he attempted to strangle the vehicle driver, causing the police vehicle to nearly meet with an accident. In that situation, one of the policemen fired a round which hit him in the right bicep."
In the scuffle preceding the firing, a police constable sustained minor injuries. Police have registered an attempt to murder case against Dangi for allegedly attacking the police team during transit.
Security Measures and Future Proceedings
Tight security has been deployed at Himmatnagar Civil Hospital, where Dangi is undergoing treatment under police guard. Officials confirmed that he will be taken into custody for further interrogation once he is discharged from the hospital. This incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in handling individuals with serious criminal histories.
