In a shocking incident that has sent tremors through the peaceful town of Samrala, armed assailants launched a brutal attack on three friends, resulting in one fatality and leaving two others fighting for their lives. The daylight shooting occurred near the revered Dukhniwaran Sahib Gurdwara, turning a quiet evening into a scene of horror.
The Tragic Incident Unfolds
According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the victims - identified as Lovepreet Singh, his cousin Gurlal Singh, and their friend Sandeep Singh - were ambushed by multiple masked attackers. The assailants, armed with sophisticated firearms, opened indiscriminate fire on the trio without any apparent provocation.
Lovepreet Singh, aged 28, succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds at the scene, while Gurlal and Sandeep sustained critical injuries. Local residents reported hearing approximately 8-10 gunshots that echoed through the neighborhood, sending people scrambling for safety.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Samrala police, led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Lakhmir Singh, swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a massive manhunt for the perpetrators. Forensic teams have been deployed to collect evidence from the crime scene, while multiple police teams are scanning CCTV footage from surrounding areas.
SSP Singh stated, "This appears to be a targeted attack, and we are exploring all possible angles. Our teams are working round the clock to identify and apprehend the culprits. We have formed special investigation teams to crack this case at the earliest."
Community in Shock
The shooting has left the local community in a state of fear and disbelief. Residents of Samrala, known for its peaceful environment, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in the region.
Local shopkeeper Harjinder Singh, who witnessed the aftermath, shared, "We never expected such violence in our neighborhood. These were young boys with their whole lives ahead of them. The community demands swift justice and enhanced security measures."
Ongoing Developments
The two injured victims have been rushed to a nearby hospital where they are undergoing emergency treatment. Doctors have described their condition as critical but stable. Meanwhile, police have intensified vehicle checking at all exit points from Samrala to prevent the escape of the attackers.
This incident marks another grim chapter in the rising incidents of gun violence in Punjab's rural areas, raising serious questions about public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement mechanisms in preventing such tragedies.