In a significant breakthrough, Ludhiana police have arrested the prime accused and seven other individuals in connection with a violent gang war that erupted at a marriage palace on Pakhowal Road, leaving two guests dead. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the industrial city, occurred during a wedding celebration over the weekend.
Main Accused and Accomplices Apprehended
The police have identified the main accused as Ankur, who is alleged to have fired the first shot that triggered the deadly clash. His arrest came just a day after the shocking incident. Furthermore, four individuals accused of harbouring the gang members and aiding their escape have also been taken into custody.
Those arrested for providing shelter and assistance include Bhusham Kumar of Harbanspura, Sandeep Kaur of Barewal, Ajay Kumar Chhabra of Chhawni Mohalla, and Chhotu Ram of Noorwala Road. In a separate action, three security guards employed at the marriage palace resort were also taken into custody for their alleged role.
Details of the Violent Clash and Police Case
The violent confrontation took place on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday during a wedding function. The clash was reportedly between the Shubham Mota and Ankur gangs. The gunfire resulted in the tragic deaths of two wedding guests, including a woman, while another individual sustained injuries.
According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered at Sadar Police Station based on the statement of ASI Jatinder Singh, the accused fled the scene after the shootout and took shelter at various locations with the help of their aides. A case has been registered under sections 249 (harbouring or concealing an offender) and 253 (harbouring an escaped offender) of the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Ongoing Investigation and Wider Net
The arrested security guards have been identified as Jashanpreet Singh of Village Nangal Khurd, Lovepreet Singh of Mandi Mullanpur, and Bhagwant Singh of Village Latana. Their involvement is under scrutiny as the police probe deeper into the sequence of events.
Ludhiana police have confirmed that the investigation is actively continuing. Authorities are working to trace other suspects involved in the gang war and are focused on determining the precise motive behind the deadly clash that disrupted a family celebration. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gang violence in the region.