Sambalpur: A veteran criminal with over 24 cases against him was injured in a police encounter in Sambalpur early on Sunday morning. According to police, at around 5:45 AM, Sadar police staff intercepted Md. Irfan of Sunapali near Sudunga forest on Canal Road under Sadar Police Station limits.
Md. Irfan, involved in more than 24 criminal cases including dacoity, robbery, aluminium wire theft, burglary and narcotics, was travelling with two associates on a black Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle bearing registration No. OD15 AB 3674.
During interception, police apprehended two accused persons while Md. Irfan fled from the spot. While fleeing, he opened fire at the police team. In response, the police team resorted to controlled firing in self-defence, during which Md. Irfan sustained a gunshot injury to his left leg.
Police said Md. Irfan fired three rounds, while the police team fired two rounds in retaliation. A pistol along with ammunition and three empty cartridges were recovered from the spot. The motorcycle used by the accused was also seized.
The injured accused was immediately shifted to VIMSAR, Burla for medical treatment. Further investigation is underway.
