Delhi: 2 chain-snatchers held after shootout in Dwarka

Two chain snatchers were arrested by Delhi Police following a shootout in the Dwarka area of southwest Delhi, an official confirmed on Monday.

The arrested individuals, Andhir Kumar and Ankush Paswan, were involved in a series of chain snatchings across Dwarka and West Delhi, the police said. A pistol, a single-shot firearm, four live cartridges, and a motorcycle used in the crimes were recovered from the suspects.

On February 16, a police team received intelligence about the movement of the two men, who had recently acquired illegal firearms. A checkpoint was set up near Kakrola Nala, where the suspects, riding a motorcycle, were signalled to stop. Instead of halting, they attempted to flee and pointed their weapons at the officers, the police added.

While Andhir’s weapon malfunctioned, Ankush fired at the raiding team, narrowly missing a sub-inspector and a head constable. In response, the police fired two rounds in self-defence, one of which struck Ankush in the leg. The suspects were overpowered and arrested. Ankush was immediately taken for medical treatment, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Satish Kumar.

Investigations revealed that the duo had carried out multiple snatching incidents, including three in Dwarka on October 13 last year within a span of 30 minutes. They also committed four more snatchings on February 14 in the Subhash Nagar area of West Delhi.

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Ankush, 22, from Uttar Pradesh, turned to crime at an early age and has been involved in stealing around 100 mobile phones and 50 chains since 2023. He is linked to 12 criminal cases. After committing several snatchings in Dwarka, he fled to Mumbai, where he worked in a hotel before returning to Delhi. Andhir, also 22, hails from Bihar and worked as a battery rickshaw driver and later as a taxi driver in Delhi. Influenced by Ankush’s lifestyle, he joined him in the chain-snatching activities. Further investigation is ongoing.

(With inputs from PTI)