Amritsar, 10 July (H.S.): Punjab Police arrested the main accused in the firing incident at a house in Jandiala Guru within 36 hours of the crime. According to police, the accused opened fire at the police team during the arrest operation, following which he was injured in retaliatory firing.

DSP Baljit Singh identified the accused as Lovepreet Singh alias Rupi resident of Jyotisar. Acting on a tip-off, a team led by SHO Harpal Singh of Jandiala Guru police station had set up a checkpoint near Janian Morh. When the accused arrived on a motorcycle, police signalled him to stop, but he allegedly opened fire on the team.

In self-defence, the police retaliated, and the accused sustained a bullet injury to his left leg. He was admitted to a hospital for treatment.

Police recovered a .30 bore pistol with a magazine, three live cartridges, and a motorcycle from his possession. Officials said the accused is already facing nine criminal cases.

According to the investigation, the firing at a house in Sheikhupura locality of Jandiala Guru was allegedly carried out following a dispute inside Amritsar Central Jail. Police said Baljit Singh alias Bhulli, the son of the targeted house owner and currently lodged in Amritsar District Jail, had an altercation with inmate Sajan alias Kana on July 8.

Investigators believe that, following the dispute, Sajan alias Kana allegedly instructed his associates to carry out the firing at the house in Sheikhupura. Police have already nominated the accused involved in the case, and further investigation is underway.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH