Criminal shot at by police in Gopalganj, arrested

Patna: A wanted criminal, Akash Kumar, carrying a Rs 50,000 reward, was shot in both legs during a late-night exchange of fire with police in Gopalganj district. He collapsed after being hit and was taken into custody at Thave-Banjari bypass under Nagar police station area. He was admitted to sadar hospital and later referred to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) due to his serious condition.Akash was earlier arrested from Haryana.Police said the gunfight took place when he was being taken to Sundar Patti for weapon recovery. They said he fired at police, leading to a gunfight. Illegal arms, live cartridges and spent shells were recovered from the spot.Akash is a resident of Baraipatti village under Thave police station area of Gopalganj.Police said Akash has around 12 criminal cases, including murder, attempt to murder, loot and Arms Act violations, pending in Thave, Town and Kuchaikote police stations. He recently demanded Rs5 lakh extortion from a Thave businessman and gained notoriety after shooting a biker in broad daylight in Mirganj.Gopalganj SP Vinay Tiwari said, “During interrogation, Akash revealed where he had hidden weapons. A police team took him to a spot near Thave-Banjari bypass for recovery. While retrieving the weapon from bushes, Akash opened fire at the police and tried to escape. In self-defence, police retaliated and shot him in both legs.”He was taken to sadar hospital in injured condition. Sadar SDPO Chandan Kumar reached the hospital and questioned him. Police said a pistol was seized from his possession and further legal action is underway.Town SHO Pravin Prabhakar, Thave SHO Vibha Kumari and the DIU team played a key role in the operation. Police are continuing further investigation to trace his associates and network of the gang.