ISLAMABAD: A police patrolling team came under heavy gunfire from armed robbers at Bakhral Chowk in the limits of Koral police.

However, the officials remained unhurt, a police spokesperson said on Sunday.

A suspect, who was injured in retaliatory fire by the police, was arrested, he said, adding that his accomplices managed to escape.

According to the spokesman, a police team was busy in routine checking at Bakhral Chowk when the officials signaled two persons riding on motorcycles which did not have registration number plates to stop. However, the motorcyclists, instead of stopping, opened fire on the police personnel.

Since the police officials had adopted necessary protective measures, none of them was injured, the spokesman said.

The police retaliated during which one of the suspects was injured. His accomplices, however, fled from the scene. The injured suspect was taken to a hospital amid tight security.

Soon after the incident, a heavy contingent of police reached the scene and cordoned off the area.

The spokesman said the arrested suspect was an active member of a notorious gang that was operating in the area of Loi Bher.

“He had previously been sent to jail by police through courts for his involvement in three robberies and possessing illegal arms,” he said.

The spokesperson said a case had been registered with Koral police station against the suspect and other gang members.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammad Ahsan Younas appreciated the bravery and sharp response of the police team, he said.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2022