Chennai, Jan 27 (NationPress) Infamous criminal Azhaguraja was killed in a police encounter in Tamil Nadu's Perambalur, adding to the series of high-profile encounter fatalities in the region. The incident occurred late on Monday night near a wooded area adjacent to Thirumanthurai village, where Azhaguraja allegedly attacked police officers while trying to escape.

As per police reports, Azhaguraja suffered a gunshot wound to the head during the encounter and was pronounced dead at the scene. He had a notorious history with over 30 criminal cases registered against him, including charges of murder, attempted murder, extortion, and contract killings.

Authorities described him as extremely dangerous, having evaded capture for years by frequently changing his hiding spots across various districts.

On the night prior, a special police unit led by Inspector Nandakumar apprehended Azhaguraja along with six accomplices at a hideout in Ooty, where they had assumed false identities.

Following the arrests, the suspects were taken to a forested area near Thirumanthurai to recover concealed weapons, explosives, and other evidence against them.

During this operation, Azhaguraja reportedly attacked the escorting officers with a sickle in an attempt to flee. Despite repeated warnings to surrender, he allegedly continued to assault the officers, prompting them to fire in self-defense.

One police officer sustained injuries during the confrontation and was promptly transported to a nearby medical facility, where his condition is reported to be stable.

Azhaguraja's arrest was linked to a recent incident involving another infamous criminal, Kalimuthu, who was attacked by a gang while being transferred to prison. Investigators suspect Azhaguraja played a significant role in orchestrating that attack.

Intelligence reports indicated he was hiding in the Tirunelveli area, leading to intensified surveillance and search operations that ultimately resulted in his capture.

Tamil Nadu has seen numerous encounter killings of history-sheeters over the years, particularly among armed criminals accused of violent offenses who allegedly attacked police during raids or recovery missions. While law enforcement asserts that these encounters are acts of self-defense, they have sparked ongoing debates about policing methods, accountability, and human rights.

With Azhaguraja’s death, authorities claim to have dismantled a significant criminal network operating across multiple districts, although investigations into his associates and past offenses continue.