Gujarat: Chain-snatchers shoot at constable in pursuit

Bhesan police station received a phone call at 11 am telling three men on a motorbike had snatched away gold chain of Varshaben Malaviya in Mendapara village and were speeding away. Reacting instantly, three constables, Devabhai Chavda, Mahendra Vala and Deva Lakshman were sent to Chhodavadi village on Bhesan-Junagadh road as part of the exercise to cordon off the area. After noticing a bike approaching them, the constables signalled it to stop. The bikers slowed down but picked up speed all of a sudden.

“As the chain-snatchers did not stop, Chavda ran after the bike while other two constables prepared to chase them on their motorbike. However, the chain-snatchers opened firing on Chavda. They fired five shots. One of the bullets hit Chavda in the abdomen and the culprits managed to speed away on their bike,” Bhesan police sub-inspector Somat Gojiya said.

The injured constable was rushed to a private hospital in Junagadh and the police said his condition was out of danger.

“Doctors are saying that a bullet is lodged in Chavda’s abdomen and operation is underway to remove it. The constables were unarmed and therefore had no weapons to defend themselves,” the PSI further said.

Bhesan police have booked three unidentified men for attempt to murder.