Amritsar, India — A man sought for the murder of a shopkeeper was shot dead during an exchange of gunfire with police in Punjab’s Amritsar district. The deceased, identified as Raja Singh, also known as Billa, was involved in a violent crime that shocked the local community.
The deadly incident unfolded on November 16, when two armed assailants entered a shop in Dhoolka village and fatally shot the owner, Manjeet Singh. The motivation for the attack was reportedly related to the shopkeeper’s failure to pay extortion money, prompting authorities to launch an immediate investigation. Singh was wanted under various legal sections, including those pertaining to serious offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act.
Following a tip-off regarding Singh’s whereabouts, police took swift action. Deputy Inspector General Sandeep Goel stated that a team from Ajnala police station was organized under the guidance of Senior Superintendent of Police Suhail Mir. This coordinated search effort aimed to locate Singh, who was believed to be planning further criminal activity.
Police set up a roadblock near Pull Sua Tong after receiving word about Singh’s presence in the area. When officers attempted to intercept him, Singh tried to escape on his motorcycle but lost control and crashed. Witnesses reported that he then opened fire on the police, injuring Assistant Sub-Inspector Shankar Singh in the arm. In return, law enforcement returned fire, striking Singh.
He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries, marking a dramatic turn in the case. Authorities have confirmed that a formal investigation into the police encounter and the circumstances leading up to it is underway.
This incident raises concerns about escalating violence and the challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with gang-related activities in the region. Community members are on edge following the recent murder, and officials are urging residents to report any suspicious behavior as police continue to clamp down on extortion and related crimes. The police remain committed to ensuring safety and restoring order in the area amid ongoing investigations.