Police arrested a man accused of stealing transformer oil after an encounter in Hardoi district on Sunday. Officials confirmed that the operation followed a surge in theft incidents across the region.
A joint team from Pali and Pachdevara police stations intercepted a suspicious vehicle during routine patrol.
When officers attempted to halt the car, the occupant tried to escape and opened fire. Police retaliated in self-defence, injuring the suspect before taking him into custody.
The accused, identified as Kuldeep alias Gabbar from Farrukhabad, sustained injuries and was admitted to a hospital for treatment.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused was involved in stealing oil from electrical transformers and had links to an organised network.
Authorities had increased surveillance and patrolling after multiple theft cases surfaced in recent weeks.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Alok Rajan Singh confirmed the recovery of Rs 20,000 in cash, a car, a country-made pistol, live ammunition, around 40 litres of stolen oil, and a mobile phone from the accused.
Police registered a case under relevant legal provisions and initiated further proceedings.
Officials stated that the accused was wanted in several cases and played a role in a larger criminal syndicate.
Investigators will question him after recovery to identify other gang members and dismantle the network.
Authorities said the action aligns with directives issued by Yogi Adityanath to intensify action against crime across the state. Further investigation remains underway.
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