The primary accused behind the shooting of a police constable in Shantiniketan within West Bengal's Birbhum district was killed in an armed encounter with police on Sunday. According to law enforcement officials, Ratan Sheikh, an individual wanted in numerous criminal cases, was successfully apprehended on Sunday afternoon from the Nabahat area located in the neighboring Purba Bardhaman district. Following his detention, the suspect reportedly confessed to his crimes and agreed to guide a police team to the specific location where he had concealed the firearm utilized in the previous attack.
Dramatic Turn During Weapon Recovery
The police team transported Ratan Sheikh to a brick kiln situated in Charkol village within the Nanoor police station limits in Birbhum district to recover the hidden weapon. Upon reaching the designated spot, the suspect suddenly retrieved the weapon from his hiding place and opened direct fire on the police party, striking a police vehicle in the process. Faced with an immediate threat to their lives, the law enforcement personnel retaliated with gunfire.
Hospitalized Following the Shootout
During the exchange of retaliatory gunfire, Ratan Sheikh sustained bullet injuries and was swiftly transported to the Nanoor Primary Health Centre. Medical personnel at the facility pronounced him dead at approximately 5:45 pm, after which his body was transferred to Bolpur Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The incident marks a significant development in local law enforcement operations.
Background of the Constable Attack
The original assault occurred on November 13 within the Lik Bazar area under the jurisdiction of the Shantiniketan police station, where the accused had allegedly shot police constable Biswajit Das in the leg. Law enforcement had intensified efforts to track him down following the attack, leading to Sunday's operation. Authorities noted that this incident represents the fifth police encounter in West Bengal over a span of six months following political shifts in the state.
Political Reactions and Statements
Commenting on the development, political figure Suvendu Adhikari labeled the deceased as a notorious criminal with 36 criminal cases registered against his name. Defending the actions of the police force, the leader emphasized that law enforcement must retaliate when fired upon and stated that there is no tolerance for criminals and anti-social elements operating within the state.
