CCTV trail leads to arrests in Clifton doctor killing

Police have arrested three suspects allegedly involved in the killing of a doctor during a daylight robbery near Teen Talwar in Clifton, recovering cash, weapons and vehicles used in the crime, officials claimed on Wednesday.

Addressing a press conference, DIG South Syed Asad Raza said the suspects were arrested during a late-night raid in the Defence Housing Authority (DHA), adding that the arrests were made after investigators traced the accused using CCTV footage and intelligence leads.

The victim, Dr Akash Kumar, was shot and killed on July 13 when armed muggers intercepted his vehicle outside a private bank in Frere police limits. According to police, the suspects also injured a security guard during the attack and fled with Rs2 million in cash.

Investigators said Dr Akash had earlier withdrawn Rs5 million from a private bank in Clifton Block 7 along with his father. The amount was split into two envelopes - Rs3 million and Rs2 million. After leaving the bank, they proceeded towards another branch to obtain a pay order.

However, before they could exit the car outside the Frere branch, four men riding two motorcycles surrounded the vehicle. One suspect opened fire at the security guard, while another shot Dr Akash through the car window, critically wounding him. The attackers snatched the Rs2 million and escaped.

The injured doctor was rushed to a private hospital but succumbed to his wounds. A case was registered at Frere police station under murder and robbery charges.

Police said the arrested suspects confessed during initial interrogation and revealed they had conducted prior surveillance on the victim. An accomplice, identified as Ram Chand, was allegedly present inside the bank and informed the gang about the cash withdrawal and the victim's movements.

Police recovered Rs2 million, three pistols, two motorcycles and a white Suzuki Alto used in the crime, which bore a fake number plate. Separate cases have been registered over the illegal weapons.

Officials said the suspects are part of a gang involved in multiple street crimes across the metropolis and have prior criminal records. The alleged shooter, identified as Suresh, is reportedly wanted in several cases.

DIG Raza said five suspects were involved in the incident and efforts were underway to arrest the remaining two. He added that the investigation was carried out on merit and CCTV footage played a key role in solving the case.