Naxal Wanted in Over 50 Cases Killed in UP ATS Encounter

A suspected Naxal wanted in more than 50 cases and carrying a ₹30 lakh reward was killed in an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) here on Sunday, police said.

The deceased, identified as Brijesh Ganjhu, was allegedly a key member of the banned extremist organisation Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC) and had been absconding for nearly two decades, according to the ATS.

The agency said it received information that Ganjhu had entered Varanasi and was heading towards Lanka Maidan. Acting on the information, ATS personnel spotted two suspects travelling on a motorcycle and signalled them to stop.

According to the ATS, the suspects allegedly opened fire at the police team, following which the personnel retaliated. Deputy Superintendent of Police Vipin Kumar Rai and head constable Jitendra Krishna sustained minor injuries during the exchange of fire.

Ganjhu was also injured in the encounter, while his associate managed to flee from the spot, the agency said. The injured suspect was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

The ATS said more than 50 cases had been registered against Ganjhu, with the cases dating back to 1996. These were registered at several police stations in Jharkhand's Chatra and other districts.

The cases included allegations related to murder, attempt to murder, kidnapping, extortion, criminal conspiracy, rioting, possession and use of arms, assault and damage to public property. He also faced cases under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Criminal Law Amendment Act.

The ATS said its personnel recovered two pistols, a carbine, a large quantity of ammunition and ₹1 lakh in cash from the encounter site. Further investigation is underway, the agency said.