Punjab ASI Murder: Accused Killed in Encounter, Pakistan Terror Link Under Probe

Deepak Singh, one of the accused in the murder of Punjab Police Assistant Sub-Inspector Harjit Singh, was killed in a police encounter on Friday night. Police reportedly said Deepak was shot during an exchange of fire after he and another suspect allegedly fired at a police team. Investigators are also checking a possible link with a Pakistan-based terrorist.

Police identified Deepak Singh, a resident of Mulchak in Amritsar, with the help of CCTV footage, technical information, tower-dump analysis, local intelligence and human sources. Police said the two suspects were stopped at a checkpoint at around 9.45 pm. The suspects allegedly opened fire, after which the police fired back in self-defence.

Deepak Singh Dies After Suffering Bullet Injuries

Deepak reportedly suffered bullet injuries during the encounter. He was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Police said a .30 bore pistol, two magazines, eight live cartridges, a mobile phone and a Honda Activa scooter allegedly used in the crime were recovered from the accused.

Second Accused Escapes, Police Continue Search

The second accused managed to escape from the spot, and police teams are searching for him. Investigators are also looking into the possible Pakistan terror connection. According to information being investigated, a Pakistan-based terrorist allegedly offered money to the accused to carry out the attack.

Assistant Sub-Inspector Harjit Singh, a resident of Tarn Taran district, was on PCR duty when two men on a bike allegedly attacked him around midnight at Bhagtanwala grain market. He was reportedly shot from close range. Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said a single bullet hit him from behind, slightly towards the back of his neck.

A .30 bore empty cartridge case was recovered from the crime scene. The police investigation into the murder, the role of the second accused and the alleged Pakistan-based terror link is continuing.