Was a petrol pump robbery prevented in Hazaribagh?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Hazaribagh Police showcased exemplary action in preventing a robbery.
- Weapons and stolen cash were recovered during the operation.
- The suspects have a significant history of criminal activity.
- Community safety relies on effective police intelligence and swift action.
- Further interrogations could uncover more criminal activities in the district.
Hazaribagh, Sep 10 (NationPress) On Wednesday, the Hazaribagh Police successfully apprehended three individuals linked to a criminal gang who were caught in the act of planning a robbery at a petrol station, as reported by officials.
From the suspects, law enforcement recovered weapons, cartridges, mobile devices, and a portion of previously stolen cash.
According to authorities, Superintendent of Police (SP) Manoj Ratan Chothe had received intelligence about the gang's intentions to target a petrol pump within the town.
In response, a specialized team was formed under the leadership of the Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer. The team initiated a vehicle inspection operation near the Mazar on Mission Road.
During this operation, police intercepted an unregistered Activa scooter. As the riders noticed the police presence, they attempted to escape but were swiftly captured. A search uncovered a 7.65 mm pistol, five live cartridges, and mobile phones.
During questioning, the detained suspects, identified as Pankaj Kumar and Ritesh Kumar, admitted involvement in the robbery of the Khirgaon petrol pump manager on August 15.
Following their confessions, another suspect, petrol pump employee Rahul Kumar, was arrested, leading to the recovery of Rs 50,000 from the stolen funds.
Officials confirmed that all three detainees have prior criminal records. Ritesh Kumar is implicated in a case involving the Arms Act at Keredari police station (Case No. 96/24).
Pankaj Kumar faces multiple charges, including robbery and violations of the Arms Act at Sadar police station (Case No. 117/24) and Bara Bazar police station (Case No. 244/25).
Authorities believe that further interrogation of these individuals could unveil additional robbery cases and illegal arms operations within the district.
The operation team included police officers Amit Anand, Pankaj Kumar, and Sudhir Kumar, along with personnel from the Armed forces and technical units.