GUJRANWALA, Jan 31: Police claimed on Wednesday to have arrested the ringleader of a dacoit’s gang who had escaped from police lock-up, and recovered illicit arms from his possession.

Reports said that accused Shahid, ringleader of the gang, had allegedly escaped from police custody some two months ago, while the constable deployed outside the lock-up had also disappeared.

The SHO concerned was suspended from service while case was registered against the police constable.

On Wednesday, DIG (operations) Khadim Hussain Bhatti received a tip-off that the accused was present in his house in Patiala Dost Muhammad village, Muridke.

He ordered a raid on the house. When a police party raided the house, the accused and his accomplices opened fire on it. When police retaliated, the accused surrendered and was arrested. However, his accomplices managed to escape.

Police recovered illicit arms from his possession.

The DIG announced cash prizes and commendation certificates for the members of raiding party, including SHO Muhammad Azher.