Asad Encounter: The main accused in the murder of a 17-year-old boy in Ghaziabad has been killed in a police encounter, days after the incident triggered public outrage and protests in the city. The development comes as police continue efforts to track down other suspects linked to the case.
According to officials, Asad, who was accused of leading the attack on teenager Surya Pratap Chauhan, was shot during a late-night operation carried out jointly by police teams from the Khoda and Indirapuram areas. He had been absconding since the incident and was the subject of an intensive manhunt.
Police said Asad had a reward of ₹50,000 announced for information leading to his arrest. He was taken to a hospital after sustaining gunshot injuries during the encounter but was declared dead on arrival by doctors.
Background of the Case
The case stems from a violent incident that took place in Ghaziabad’s Khoda locality on May 28, coinciding with the Bakrid festival. Investigators allege that Surya Pratap Chauhan was attacked with a knife by Asad and several associates.
The teenager suffered serious injuries in the assault and was admitted to a hospital for treatment. Despite medical efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries, turning the case into a murder investigation.
The incident quickly drew attention across the region, with local residents expressing anger over the killing. Family members of the victim, along with members of various social and community organizations, staged demonstrations demanding swift action against those responsible.
The case became a major law-and-order issue for local authorities, increasing pressure on police to arrest all suspects involved.
Police Search Intensified After Incident
Following the murder, police registered a case against multiple accused individuals. Authorities identified five people as suspects in the attack.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Dhaval Jaiswal, three of the accused were arrested shortly after the incident. However, Asad, identified as the principal accused, managed to evade capture.
To locate him, police formed multiple teams and conducted raids at various locations. Surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations were also intensified as investigators attempted to track his movements.
Officials said the reward announcement was intended to encourage the public to provide information that could help in his arrest.
How the Encounter Unfolded
Police officials stated that they recently received intelligence suggesting that Asad was planning to leave the area after meeting associates and collecting money.
Based on this information, law enforcement agencies launched a coordinated operation and established checkpoints at strategic locations. Vehicles were being checked as part of the search effort when officers reportedly spotted Asad traveling on a motorcycle with another individual.
According to the police version of events, officers attempted to stop the motorcycle for questioning. Authorities claim that Asad responded by opening fire on the police team.
Police then returned fire, leading to an exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation, Asad sustained critical injuries.
He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
Officials also confirmed that one police officer was injured during the operation after suffering a gunshot wound. The officer received medical treatment and remains under care.
Evidence Recovered From the Scene
Investigators said a firearm allegedly used by Asad and the motorcycle he was riding were recovered from the encounter site.
Police are examining the recovered items as part of the ongoing investigation. Forensic analysis and documentation of the encounter are expected to form part of the legal review process that typically follows such incidents.
Authorities have not released additional details about the weapon or other evidence recovered.
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Search Continues for Remaining Suspects
While the asad encounter has brought an end to the search for the main accused, police say the investigation is far from over.
Officials revealed that the second individual who was reportedly accompanying Asad during the operation managed to escape. Security personnel have launched a search operation to locate and arrest the fugitive.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing efforts to identify and apprehend anyone else who may have played a role in the attack on Surya Pratap Chauhan.
Police have indicated that legal proceedings against the remaining accused will continue under the provisions of law.
Family Seeks Action Against All Accused
Following news of the encounter, members of Surya Pratap Chauhan’s family reacted publicly.
The victim’s mother said she wanted strict action against every person allegedly involved in her son’s killing. She expressed the family’s desire to see all accused brought to justice and held accountable for their roles in the incident.
Her comments reflected the deep grief and anger felt by the family following the loss of the teenager, whose death had already sparked widespread public attention.
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Investigation Remains Underway
The case continues to be closely monitored as authorities pursue the remaining suspects and complete legal formalities related to the encounter.
Police officials have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that all aspects of the case, including the circumstances surrounding the killing of Surya Pratap Chauhan and the subsequent police operation, will be examined according to established procedures.
The asad encounter marks a significant development in one of the most discussed criminal cases in Ghaziabad in recent weeks, but investigators say further action is expected as the search for remaining accused persons continues.