GUJRANWALA, Nov 14: The raiding parties of three police stations claimed on Monday to have arrested 13 robbers in ‘encounters’ and recovered illicit arms and looted goods from their possession. On a tip-off, DPO Dr Arif Mushtaq said at a briefing, the Ferozewala police raided Mandiala Tega village for the arrest of six gangsters. On seeing the police, they opened fire. In retaliation, the dacoits surrendered and the police arrested them, he said.

They were identified as proclaimed offender Asif, Muqadas, Imran, Shahbaz, Munir and Qaiser. Asif was wanted by police in the killing of cantonment police constable. His brother Shafqat managed to escape.

The DPO said police recovered a 7mm rifle, a pump action, four pistols and dozens of rounds, besides looted goods from their possession.

He claimed that Model Town and Kamoki police raided hideouts of criminals and arrested Sarwar, Muhammad Khan, Arshad Prince, Tanvir, Gulzar, Naveed and Sarfraz following brief encounters.

The police recovered arms, four motorcycles, dozens of mobile phones and gold jewellery from their possession, he said.

Mr Mushtaq said they were wanted in 24 robberies.