A senior police officer in Punjab's Ludhiana district had a miraculous escape from death on Monday morning. Inspector Akash Datt, the station house officer of Doraha, survived a direct gunshot to his chest during a high-speed confrontation with a wanted criminal.
The Dramatic Shootout
The incident unfolded around 8am on Rampur Road in Doraha. Police teams from Doraha station and the crime investigation agency had received specific intelligence about the location of Harsimran Singh, a 27-year-old fugitive also known as 'Mand'.
When officers attempted to intercept the suspect's unregistered black Mahindra Scorpio, Harsimran Singh reportedly rammed his vehicle into a police car. He then opened fire on the approaching officers.
"One of the three gunshots fired by the accused hit me directly in the chest," Inspector Datt recounted later. "Because I was wearing a bulletproof jacket, I escaped unhurt."
Swift Police Response
Despite being struck, Inspector Datt immediately returned fire. He discharged two rounds from his service weapon, with one bullet striking Harsimran Singh in the right knee. This injury effectively disabled the suspect.
Superintendent of Police Pawanjit Singh confirmed that both Harsimran Singh and his accomplice, Avanjot Singh Bhandal, were apprehended at the scene by 8.15am. Police recovered two .32-bore pistols from the suspects' vehicle.
The injured Harsimran Singh received medical attention at a government hospital in Payal for his leg wound. His condition remains stable under police guard.
A Known Threat to Police
Police records reveal Harsimran Singh has repeatedly targeted law enforcement officers. In October 2023, authorities charged him with attempted murder and violations of the Arms Act. He allegedly tried to run over a policeman at a checkpoint, crushing the officer's foot.
The same year, Ludhiana Sadar police station booked him in a kidnapping case. Machhiwara station also registered firearms charges against him. Despite multiple arrest warrants, Harsimran Singh had successfully evaded capture until Monday's operation.
Police authorities had recently initiated legal proceedings to declare him a "proclaimed offender" due to his continued evasion of justice.
Investigation Continues
Forensic teams are currently processing the crime scene on Rampur Road. While Harsimran Singh has an established criminal history, investigators are still examining the involvement of his accomplice, Avanjot Singh Bhandal, who reportedly has no prior criminal record.
Superintendent Pawanjit Singh praised Inspector Datt's conduct during the dangerous operation. "The SHO demonstrated exceptional bravery and tactical skill in apprehending these individuals under fire," he stated.
The incident highlights both the dangers police officers face daily and the critical importance of protective equipment like bulletproof vests. Inspector Datt's survival serves as a powerful reminder of how proper gear can mean the difference between life and death in law enforcement confrontations.
