Amritsar/Tarn Taran, Jan 7: Punjab Police on Tuesday shot dead a gangster allegedly involved in the killing of AAP sarpanch Jarmal Singh, officials said, describing the action as self-defence after the accused fired at police personnel.
The encounter took place in Tarn Taran district when police teams attempted to stop Harnoor Singh alias Noor, who was believed to have assisted in planning the murder and conducting surveillance before the attack.
DIG Ferozepur range Snehdeep Sharma said Tarn Taran SSP Surendra Lamba had constituted several teams to trace those linked to the murder.
“The accused was moving on a motorcycle without a registration number. When police teams signalled him to stop, he attempted to flee and opened fire,” Sharma said.
According to police, a bullet hit a policeman’s jacket during the chase.
“The police responded in self-defence. The accused was critically injured and later died in hospital,” the DIG said.
Officials said Harnoor Singh had close associations with organised crime groups, including the Afridi gang, and was actively involved in preparations for the sarpanch’s killing. A firearm was recovered from his possession.
Jarmal Singh (50) was killed on Sunday during a wedding function at a private resort near the Verka Bypass in Amritsar. Police said two unidentified gunmen fired at him at close range before fleeing the scene, triggering panic among guests.
Reacting to the encounter, AAP Punjab general secretary and media in-charge Baltej Pannu said the government would act firmly against crime.
“No one, regardless of influence, will be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Punjab Police will act without fear or favour,” Pannu said, adding that the state had adopted a strict approach towards criminal activity.
Police said efforts are on to identify and arrest other suspects connected to the murder.
