Suspect killed in police custody

Assailants manage to escape, police launch manhunt

RAWALPINDI:

An accused was shot dead by his accomplices while in police custody during an alleged police encounter in Mangot area within the limits of Mandira police station on Thursday.

According to a spokesperson for the police, three accused managed to escape from the spot on two motorcycles after carrying out the shooting. All the police personnel deputed to the security of the accused remained safe during the encounter.

The slain suspect was identified as Muzamil Shah. The incident occurred when the police were en route with the accused for the recovery of key evidence pertaining to an attempted murder and theft case. The suspect had been previously apprehended on charges of robbery and attempted murder.

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During their transit, three individuals, presumed to be associates of the accused opened fire in an attempt to rescue Muzamil Shah. Tragically, the suspect sustained serious injuries while still in police custody. Prompt action was taken, and Muzamil Shah was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. The spokesperson said regrettably, he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

In response to the alleged police encounter, a substantial police contingent arrived at the scene. However, the individuals responsible for the attack managed to escape before the authorities could apprehend them.

Fortunately, all the police personnel escorting Muzamil Shah remained unharmed during this encounter.

A subsequent search operation did lead to the recovery of a motorcycle believed to be associated with the attackers. Senior police officials also arrived at the scene to oversee the situation.

Also read: Seven suspects killed in 11 encounters: police

Speaking about the incident, Saddar SP Muhammad Nabeel Khokhar assured that the individuals responsible for firing upon the police team would be diligently pursued and brought to justice.

‘Most wanted’ robbers

In a separate incident, an armed robber was shot and injured while his two accomplices were arrested during a police encounter in the limits of Race Course police station on Thursday.

Police said that four armed robbers on two motorcycles opened fire when policemen on a patrol signaled them to stop. Instead of stopping the robbers opened fire at the police. In retaliation, police also fired back and one of the suspects was injured. Later, he was taken to hospital.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 20^th, 2023.