In a shocking incident that has sent waves of fear through the rural community, a 45-year-old shopkeeper was brutally shot dead in Dhulke village, located on the outskirts of Amritsar. The victim, identified as Kuldeep Singh, was attacked by unidentified assailants on Tuesday evening, raising serious concerns about law and order in the region.
The Fatal Attack
The tragic incident occurred around 7:30 PM on Tuesday when Kuldeep Singh was present at his general store. According to preliminary investigations by the Amritsar rural police, two unidentified individuals arrived at the scene and opened fire at the shopkeeper from close range. The attackers used a .32-bore pistol, and Kuldeep Singh sustained three gunshot wounds to his chest and abdomen, leading to his immediate collapse.
Eyewitnesses and local residents reported hearing multiple gunshots that echoed through the otherwise peaceful village. The assailants managed to flee the spot immediately after committing the crime, taking advantage of the ensuing chaos and the fading evening light. The police were alerted promptly, and a team from the Jandiala Guru police station reached the location to begin their investigation.
Extortion Angle Emerges
Senior police officials have revealed that the murder appears to be linked to extortion demands. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Satinder Singh confirmed that initial evidence strongly suggests the killers were pressuring Kuldeep Singh for money. This extortion angle has become the primary focus of the police investigation as they work to identify the perpetrators.
The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder and arms act violations. Forensic teams have collected crucial evidence from the crime scene, including empty cartridges that could help trace the weapon used in the crime. The investigation is being supervised by senior officers who are pursuing multiple leads to apprehend the culprits.
Community Reaction and Police Response
The brutal murder has created an atmosphere of fear and anger among the residents of Dhulke village and surrounding areas. Local shopkeepers and business owners have expressed deep concern about their safety, with many questioning the effectiveness of police protection in rural regions. The victim's family has been provided with security as the investigation continues.
Police authorities have assured the public that they are taking the matter with utmost seriousness. AIG Satinder Singh emphasized that special teams have been formed to solve the case quickly. The police are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas and conducting door-to-door inquiries to gather more information about the suspects and their possible motives.
This incident highlights the growing concern about organized crime and extortion rackets targeting small business owners in Punjab. The police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities or extortion threats immediately, promising strict action against criminal elements operating in the region.
