Punjab Police Recover Stolen Pistol Linked to Slain Kabaddi Promoter
In a significant breakthrough, Bathinda police have successfully recovered the stolen pistol of Kanwar Digvijay Singh, widely known as Rana Balachauria, a prominent kabaddi promoter who was tragically shot dead during a kabaddi tournament at Sohana in Mohali district on December 15, 2025. The recovery marks a crucial development in the ongoing investigation into his murder, shedding light on the weapon's whereabouts after the incident.
Arrest Made in Connection with Robbery Case
The accused, identified as Gurmel Singh, also known as Jassa, a resident of Hamirgarh village currently living in Jandanwala village, was apprehended by authorities. His arrest stemmed from a separate robbery case reported on Sunday evening, where a 35-year-old man, Hapreet Singh from Romana Ajit Singh village in Faridkot district, was allegedly robbed of his motorcycle and mobile phone at gunpoint near Goniana Khurd village while returning from Bathinda to his home.
During the investigation, Hapreet Singh positively identified Gurmel Singh as one of the perpetrators, leading to his swift arrest. Upon questioning, it was revealed that the pistol recovered from Gurmel Singh was the same weapon stolen from the crime scene after Rana Balachauria's murder. Police officials confirmed that Gurmel had attended the kabaddi match and seized the pistol from the spot following the shooting.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
A senior police officer stated that Gurmel Singh's criminal antecedents are currently under verification, and efforts are intensifying to locate and apprehend his accomplice, who remains unidentified and at large. The case has been formally registered at the Nehianwala police station, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to pursuing all leads related to both the robbery and the murder investigation.
This recovery not only aids in piecing together the events surrounding Rana Balachauria's death but also highlights the interconnected nature of criminal activities in the region. The police are leveraging this arrest to gather further evidence and potentially uncover additional details about the broader network involved.
