Rajkot firing: History-sheeter, photojournalist arrested near Nageshwar
Rajkot firing: History-sheeter, photojournalist arrested

A dramatic firing incident near Nageshwar on the Rajkot–Jamnagar highway on Saturday evening prompted a heavy police response and culminated in the arrest of a known history-sheeter and an alleged photojournalist. The confrontation unfolded around 4:30 pm within the compound of a commercial establishment, sending shockwaves through the area.

Police response and investigation

Upon receiving reports of gunfire, multiple police units including teams from Gandhigram police station, the DCP Zone 2 Local Crime Branch, and the Special Operations Group rushed to the scene. Police sub-inspector Dhara Joshi of Gandhigram police station filed a complaint against Ramdev Dangar, a notorious history-sheeter, and Divyarajsinh Sarvaiya, who is described as an alleged photojournalist. The charges were brought under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act.

According to the official complaint, police were alerted to the firing around 7:45 pm. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the security guard, who confirmed that gunshots had been heard earlier in the afternoon. A thorough examination of CCTV footage from the premises revealed crucial evidence. The footage allegedly shows a silver-colored car entering the compound at high speed around 4:30 pm. A man exits the driver's seat and appears to open fire at another individual standing under a tree. Two persons then rush out from a nearby room, and the targeted man allegedly brandishes a weapon and points it back at the attacker.

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Escalation and intervention

During the ensuing scuffle, several bystanders intervened in an attempt to separate the two parties. Police stated that Sarvaiya allegedly fired two rounds during the confrontation, further escalating the situation and causing panic in the vicinity. Notably, neither party approached the police to file a complaint. Acting on the CCTV footage and other evidence, authorities registered a suo motu case and arrested both accused.

ACP South Division B J Chaudhary revealed that Dangar has a lengthy criminal record, with approximately 15 cases against him, including offenses under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA). He was recently released on bail. His criminal history includes charges of murder, attempt to murder, rioting, obstructing police duty, and extortion.

Preliminary findings and weapons seized

Initial investigations suggest that the clash stemmed from a financial dispute between the two men. Police disclosed that Sarvaiya possessed a licensed firearm, while Dangar allegedly carried an illegal weapon. Both weapons have been seized and sent for forensic examination. Additionally, police noted that Sarvaiya is the son of a retired assistant sub-inspector (ASI).

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