Panchkula: Panic spread across the upscale Sector-5 locality of Panchkula in Haryana after unidentified assailants opened fire on nightclub owner Ratan Lubana, leaving him seriously injured, officials said on Thursday.
The attack has taken a dramatic turn following the emergence of an alleged audio message purportedly linked to gangster Rohit Godara, prompting investigators to examine possible connections to organised crime and extortion networks.
According to officials, the shooting took place outside the Swiss Lodge in Sector-5. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived on a motorcycle and fired multiple rounds at Lubana.
Preliminary accounts suggest that around eight to nine shots were fired during the assault.
Lubana sustained two gunshot wounds. One bullet reportedly struck his abdomen and passed through his body, while another hit his shoulder. The sudden burst of gunfire created panic in the area, with residents and passersby scrambling for safety, officials said.
Following the attack, Lubana was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Sector-6, Panchkula, where he received initial treatment. He was later referred to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. Subsequently, his family shifted him to a private hospital in Mohali for further treatment.
Soon after receiving information about the incident, Deputy Superintendent of Police Vikram Nehra and Sector-5 Station House Officer Lalit Kumar reached the spot along with police personnel.
The police team examined the crime scene, collected forensic evidence, and began reviewing footage from CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity.
The investigation gained further significance after an alleged phone call and audio message were reportedly received on Lubana’s mobile phone in the name of gangster Rohit Godara.
According to sources, the audio message allegedly warned that paying Rs 3-4 crore to rivals would inevitably lead to consequences such as the attack. The message also reportedly contained a demand for direct communication with Lubana.
Sources familiar with the development claimed that the audio recording contains indications suggesting that the caller took responsibility for the shooting. However, police officials have not officially confirmed the authenticity of the message.
Investigators said that a detailed technical analysis of the calls and audio recordings is currently underway. Officials added that the authenticity of the material will be determined only after digital and forensic verification.
Police sources further revealed that reports had surfaced earlier regarding alleged threats received by Lubana from gangster Donny Bal.
In view of these developments, investigators are examining all possible angles, including gang rivalry, extortion demands, personal enmity, and organised criminal activity.
Sector-5 is regarded as one of Panchkula’s busiest and most prominent commercial zones, housing several clubs, restaurants, and business establishments. The locality is known for its active nightlife and remains under regular police surveillance, including routine patrolling and security checkpoints.
Police officials said special teams have been formed to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack. The investigation is being carried forward using CCTV footage, mobile phone location analysis, and other technical evidence.
Further details are awaited.
(IANS)
