Guwahati, 15 October (HS): Two alleged thieves arrested by Basistha police in Guwahati were injured in a police firing incident on the Khanapara–Panbazar road after they allegedly attempted to escape from custody.

Police said on Thursday that the two accused tried to flee while in police custody. According to police sources, they were repeatedly asked to stop but allegedly ignored the warnings, forcing the police to open fire. Both sustained bullet injuries and were subsequently admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for treatment.

The two accused were allegedly involved in a snatching incident in the Janakpur area on the morning of October 5 at around 5.45 am. They allegedly attempted to flee after snatching a woman's handbag, dragging her for nearly 20 metres with their scooter. The woman sustained serious injuries in the incident.

Police suspect that the duo may also be involved in several similar snatching incidents reported from different parts of Guwahati.

The scooter recovered from the accused has also been identified as a stolen vehicle, police said. Further investigation is underway to establish their involvement in other criminal cases and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.-------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash