FAZILKA, Aug 3: — Two alleged gangsters wanted in connection with the July 7 murder of Abohar-based businessman Sanjay Verma were injured in a police encounter late Saturday night near Arniwala, Fazilka police said.
According to officials, the operation was launched following a tip-off. A team led by Inspector Lekh Raj, Station House Officer of City Police Station Fazilka, raided a suspected hideout. As the suspects attempted to flee, police opened fire, injuring both men in the legs.
The accused were identified as Sahil Josan, a resident of Chak Chukar, and Sukhpal Singh alias Palu from Arniwala. “Both have multiple criminal cases against them, including murder,” said a senior police official.
They were immediately taken to the Civil Hospital for treatment. Their custody will be formally secured once they are declared fit for interrogation, police said.
Police confirmed the duo’s involvement in Sanjay Verma’s murder, who co-owned New Wear Well Emporium in Abohar. Investigators are also examining their alleged role in the earlier killing of Sahilpreet, son of Sukhwinder Singh, in a targeted attack near Fazilka’s Shivpuri Chowk.
Sukhwinder had earlier lodged a complaint, stating that his son received phone threats days before his murder. “They told me over the phone, ‘We won’t let your son live’,” he recalled. On the day of the attack, Sahilpreet was returning from a court hearing when his vehicle was hit intentionally, and multiple assailants opened fire. A bullet struck him in the head, killing him instantly.
FIRs in connection with that incident were registered under Sections 103, 351(2), 191(3), and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and various provisions of the Arms Act.
Police sources said the involvement of Sahil and Sukhpal in both cases is now being actively investigated. “We have evidence linking them to both murders. Further probe will uncover the extent of their network,” said the official.
Investigations are ongoing.
