Rewari ASI killed in raid to nab gangster

Gurugram: An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) with Rewari police was martyred on Thursday when he and other policemen undertook an operation to catch a local gangster Naresh.

Cops on Friday said that ASI Rajbir Singh was struck by two bullets in the chest and succumbed to his injuries. On August 15, Singh had been felicitated with a gallantry medal for his services.

Rewari police were on the lookout for Naresh and his gang ever since they murdered a hotel owner Ranveer on October 30, for refusing to pay extortion money.

Around 9.30 pm on Thursday, ASI Singh and his team got a tip-off about Naresh's presence in a village in Rewari.

However, Naresh reportedly came to know about the policemen coming to arrest him, and before cops could round him up, Naresh and his gang members started firing indiscriminately at them.

While Naresh managed to escape in the ensuing shootout, ASI Singh sustained critical injuries and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he passed away during treatment.

"It is a sad day for us. We have lost one of our brave officers who died in the line of duty. It is the courage of officers like Rajbir Singh that inspire many to undertake their duties fearlessly and with integrity. The police force will leave no stone unturned to take care of the deceased's family," said Rahul Sharma Superintendent of Police, Rewari.

He further assured that Naresh and his associates will soon be arrested.

According to police officials, Naresh – a Rewari native – began with petty crimes like theft and snatchings, and was even incarcerated for a while. His criminal activities became more sinister after he killed one of his relatives in a family feud.

He is also wanted for various murder and dacoity cases in Gurugram.