Bhubaneswar, 13 September (H.S.): A wanted criminal with more than 24 criminal cases against him was injured in a police encounter in Sambalpur early Sunday morning, police said.

According to police, Sadar police personnel intercepted Md. Irfan, a resident of Sunapali, near the Sudunga forest on Canal Road under Sadar police station limits at around 5:45 am.

Irfan, who is allegedly involved in more than 24 cases relating to dacoity, robbery, aluminium wire theft, burglary and narcotics offences, was travelling on a black Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle bearing registration number OD15 AB 3674 along with two associates.

During the interception, police managed to apprehend the two associates, while Irfan fled from the spot. Police said that while fleeing, he opened fire at the police team, prompting the personnel to resort to controlled firing in self-defence. Irfan sustained a gunshot injury to his left leg during the exchange of fire.

Police said Irfan fired three rounds, while the police team fired two rounds in retaliation. A pistol, ammunition and three empty cartridges were recovered from the spot. The motorcycle allegedly used by the accused was also seized.

The injured accused was immediately shifted to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, for treatment.

Further investigation into the incident and the criminal activities allegedly linked to Irfan is underway.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda