3 alleged robbers killed in Khanewal 'CCD encounter'

KHANEWAL:

Three alleged members of a "dangerous" robbery gang, including its suspected ringleader, were killed in an encounter with police in Khanewal, according to the Crime Control Department (CCD).

The deceased were identified as Shahbaz Raan and two of his alleged associates. According to a CCD spokesperson, the suspects were wanted by Khanewal police in more than 16 cases.

The spokesperson said a CCD team led by Mian Channu Circle In-charge Inspector Azim Subhani and Inspector Hassan Iqbal launched an operation against alleged criminal elements.

During the operation, an exchange of fire took place between police and the suspects, resulting in the death of Shahbaz Raan.

The CCD claimed that the other two suspects were also killed after allegedly coming under fire from their own accomplices.

According to the police, the gang's associates opened fire on the police team but escaped under cover of darkness after the exchange.

Police said the operation inflicted significant losses on the gang, with three suspects killed.

Police sources described Shahbaz Raan as a wanted and allegedly dangerous suspect involved in several serious cases registered in Khanewal district.