Two armed robbers who shot and stabbed staff at a government-run liquor shop in Paharganj, New Delhi, on the night of 24 May were apprehended by Delhi Police within 24 hours in a dramatic motorcycle chase through the Sahibabad area. The near-fatal attack left two salesmen hospitalised, but the swift police response — aided by CCTV footage and a crucial UPI payment trail — led to both suspects being nabbed before the following night.

How the Attack Unfolded

According to investigators, both accused entered the liquor shop in Paharganj — a busy commercial hub in central Delhi — with the intent to rob. One accused fired four rounds from a firearm; three bullets misfired, but one struck a salesman. The second accused simultaneously attacked another salesman with a knife, inflicting stab injuries.

The robbers managed to snatch a wallet belonging to a third salesman containing approximately ₹1,500 in cash, an Aadhaar Card, a Voter ID Card, and other documents. However, when shop staff confronted the attackers, the duo fled the scene. A Delhi Police beat constable's timely intervention is credited with thwarting a more extensive looting attempt.

The Digital Trail That Cracked the Case

Forensic and crime scene teams were deployed immediately after the incident. Scrutiny of CCTV recordings proved decisive: one suspect was seen wearing an orange Swiggy T-shirt and a helmet; the other wore a black T-shirt and a helmet. Footage tracked their movement toward the Nabi Karim area after fleeing the shop.

Notably, investigators found that one of the accused had visited the same shop earlier that evening at around 9:00 PM and purchased two beer bottles via UPI. That digital payment record became the pivotal lead in identifying and locating both suspects — a reminder of how cashless transactions can cut both ways.

Arrest and Police Response

Multiple special teams were formed within hours of the incident. Acting on the CCTV and UPI leads, police launched a motorcycle chase in the Sahibabad area and apprehended both accused in under 24 hours. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team also collected evidence from the crime scene to support prosecution.

Both injured salesmen were admitted to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving treatment, according to officials.

What Comes Next

The two accused are in police custody and further investigation is ongoing. Charges related to attempted murder, robbery, and illegal use of firearms are expected to be filed. The case underscores growing concerns about security at government-run retail outlets in high-footfall urban areas — and how digital forensics are increasingly central to rapid crime resolution in Indian cities.