34-Year-Old Gang Leader Nabbed; Accomplice Escapes During Gunfight
In a significant breakthrough, Mohali police apprehended Satpreet Singh, alias Satti, a notorious gang leader involved in multiple inter-state highway robberies. The arrest followed a dramatic encounter near Lehli village in Lalru on Sunday. Satpreet, aged 34, sustained a bullet injury to his right leg during the gunfight, while his accomplice, Sabi, managed to escape.
The police recovered a black Bajaj Platina motorcycle, a .32-calibre pistol, and five live cartridges from the scene. The injured Satpreet was immediately rushed to a local civil hospital for medical attention.
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Police Pursuit Ends in Gunfight
According to law enforcement, Satpreet was riding pillion on a motorcycle driven by Sabi. During the police chase, Satpreet fired three shots at the officers, hitting an official vehicle. As the chase reached the jungle area of Lehli village, Sabi abandoned Satpreet and fled the scene after the latter was shot in the leg.
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav described Satpreet as a “history-sheeter” involved in numerous cases of robbery and snatching across Punjab and Haryana. His gang primarily targeted halted vehicles on the Ambala-Dera Bassi highway.
Recent Robberies Linked to Gang
Preliminary investigations revealed that Satpreet and his gang carried out two highway robberies on November 3 and November 10 in Lalru. During these incidents, they looted cash, mobile phones, and gold ornaments at gunpoint. Mohali Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Deepak Pareek stated that credible intelligence and evidence tied Satpreet to these crimes, leading to Sunday’s operation.
Coordinated Operation by Police
A team led by Dera Bassi DSP Bikramjit Singh Brar acted on technical and human intelligence to track Satpreet’s movements. During the pursuit, Satpreet fired at the police, prompting a retaliatory response that left him injured. SSP Pareek assured that police are closing in on Sabi and other gang members.
Case Registered Under Multiple Sections
A case has been registered against Satpreet under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Sections 109 (attempt to murder), 132 (assault on a public servant), and 221 (obstruction of duty), along with relevant sections of the Arms Act, at Lalru police station.
Gang Formed in Jail
Investigators revealed that Satpreet formed his six-member gang while serving time in Ambala jail. His accomplices, hailing from Dera Bassi, Lehli, and Ambala, worked together to target vehicles on National Highway-21. On November 10, the gang allegedly robbed a married couple at gunpoint, stealing valuables and cash.
Criminal History and Rehabilitation Efforts
Satpreet, a resident of Dandrala village in Dera Bassi, has a criminal record that includes robbery, snatching, and an attempt-to-murder case registered by Dera Bassi police. Previously, he was admitted to a de-addiction center in Ambala, reflecting a history of drug addiction.
Police Vow to Nab Remaining Gang Members
Police officials, including SP (Rural) Manpreet Singh, stated that multiple victims, previously hesitant to report robberies, have come forward following Satpreet’s arrest. Efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining gang members.
The arrest of Satpreet marks a significant step in cracking down on highway robberies, ensuring safer roads for commuters in Punjab and neighboring states.