Encounter in Gannaur: Criminal neutralised, cop injured
A Sonepat police team shot dead a notorious criminal in an encounter early Tuesday morning in the Gannaur area. The accused, identified as Vikram Singh, was wanted in at least 20 criminal cases, including murder, attempted murder, and dacoity. He had jumped parole and was evading arrest. During the operation, Head Constable Rajbir Singh sustained a bullet injury to his leg and was hospitalised. Police officials confirmed that the criminal opened fire first, forcing the team to retaliate.
Background of the accused
Vikram Singh, a resident of Gannaur, had a long criminal record. According to Sonepat Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Jogwan, Singh was involved in multiple violent crimes across Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. He was released on parole in March 2026 but failed to surrender after the parole period ended. A lookout notice was issued, and a reward of Rs 50,000 was declared for his capture. Police had been tracking his movements for weeks before the encounter.
Details of the operation
The encounter took place around 1:30 AM near a secluded farmhouse on the outskirts of Gannaur. A police team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sunil Kumar laid a trap after receiving a tip-off that Singh would be visiting the location. As the team approached, Singh fired at them with a country-made pistol. In the ensuing exchange, Singh was hit in the chest and died on the spot. Head Constable Rajbir Singh was rushed to a nearby hospital; his condition is stable, according to doctors.
Recovery of weapons and evidence
From the encounter site, police recovered a country-made pistol, several live cartridges, a mobile phone, and a motorcycle without a number plate that Singh was using. Forensic teams collected samples for analysis. SP Jogwan said, “The criminal had a history of evading arrest and was a threat to public safety. Our team acted swiftly and professionally. We regret the injury to our constable, but it is part of the job.” The motorcycle is suspected to be stolen, and police are verifying its ownership.
Legal and procedural steps
An inquiry has been initiated as per standard procedure for police encounters. The District Magistrate has ordered a magisterial probe to ensure transparency. Meanwhile, the police have registered a case against Vikram Singh for attempt to murder and other charges. His family has been informed. The injured constable is being treated at a private hospital in Sonepat, and the police department has assured all medical expenses.
Impact on local crime
Residents of Gannaur expressed relief over the elimination of the criminal. Local shopkeeper Ramesh Gupta said, “We were scared of him. He used to extort money and threaten people. Now we feel safer.” Police believe that Singh's death will disrupt a local gang involved in theft and robbery. SP Jogwan added, “We are committed to cracking down on criminals. This encounter sends a strong message that lawlessness will not be tolerated.” The operation is part of a broader crackdown on parole jumpers and repeat offenders in Haryana.
