Prison van killings: Crime Branch directs officials to warn police about warring gangs

In August this year, two prisoners, Paras and Pradeep, who were part of the Neetu Dabodia gang, were beaten to death by Neeraj Bawana and his six associates inside a moving prison van, said police.

The incident occurred while they were being taken back to jail from Rohini court after attending a hearing. None of the guards allegedly intervened.
After the incident, the DAP and Tihar Jail authorities blamed each other for lapses in security.

The DAP had said Tihar officials did not inform the escorting policemen that the prisoners belonged to rival gangs. However, the jail administration said police had not informed them that the prisoners may fight or attack each other.

Sources in the police said the order was issued to prevent possible fights as many gang rivals are lodged in Tihar. Sources said authorities were keeping an eye on Bawana, Navin Bali, Amit Shukla and Udaiveer Kala.

Recently, a dozen men from two rival gangs were arrested following “gang wars” in South Delhi. Police believe they may continue their fight behind bars as well, said sources.