Notorious criminal arrested following police encounter in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Feb 17: In a significant police operation, a notorious criminal involved in apartment robberies was apprehended after an encounter with law enforcement in the Balianta area on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar during the early hours of Monday.

The suspect, identified as Arjun Anare, sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and has since been hospitalized for treatment.

According to police sources, Arjun and his gang were preparing to execute a burglary at a local apartment when they were spotted by Balianta police conducting a routine patrol. Upon seeing the officers, the gang attempted to flee, prompting a chase. During the pursuit, Arjun allegedly fired upon the police, who responded in kind, hitting him in the leg. Although Arjun was captured, four other gang members managed to escape the scene.

Initially taken to the Capital Hospital for critical injuries, Arjun's condition worsened, leading to his transfer to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bhubaneswar. In the wake of this incident, police have launched a manhunt to locate the absconding gang members, believed to be from Madhya Pradesh. Bhubaneswar DCP Pinak Mishra confirmed the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of residents and apprehend the remaining criminals.