A dramatic incident unfolded in Gujarat's Kheda district where a woman police officer was forced to open fire on a rape accused who attempted to escape from custody. The shooting occurred during a crucial crime scene reconstruction exercise, highlighting the risks law enforcement faces.
The Incident: A Sudden Escape Attempt
On Saturday, a police team from the Matar police station had taken a 24-year-old man, accused in a rape case, to the scene of the alleged crime for reconstruction. The purpose was to verify the sequence of events as part of the investigation. The accused, a resident of Vasad, was in police custody at the time.
According to officials, the situation escalated when the accused saw an opportunity and tried to flee from the spot. He broke free and began running, putting the entire investigation at risk and demonstrating a clear intent to evade justice.
Swift Action by Woman Police Inspector
In response to the sudden escape attempt, a quick-thinking woman police inspector took decisive action. Police Inspector R R Rana, who was leading the team, fired a single shot from her service weapon. The bullet struck the accused in his leg, effectively immobilizing him and preventing his escape.
The injured accused was immediately provided with first aid at the scene. He was then rushed to a nearby hospital in Matar for medical treatment. Police confirmed that his condition is stable and that he is out of danger.
Aftermath and Official Response
Following the shooting, standard legal procedures were initiated. The police have registered a case regarding the incident of the accused attempting to flee from custody. Furthermore, an inquiry into the firing incident itself has been launched as per protocol. This internal review is standard practice whenever an officer discharges their firearm.
The original case for which the man was in custody is a serious one. He was arrested under sections 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. The crime scene reconstruction was a key part of gathering evidence for this ongoing investigation.
This event underscores the unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work, especially during field investigations for heinous crimes. It also showcases the alertness required of officers, regardless of gender, while handling accused individuals in non-secure environments.
