Amritsar ASI murder accused escapes police custody, senior constable suspended

PTC News Desk: An accused arrested in connection with the shooting of ASI Jaswant Singh in Amritsar escaped from police custody while being taken to recover the weapon used in the crime.

The accused has been identified as Karan, a resident of Jhajhoti village. Police had taken him to the Majitha area on Wednesday night when he reportedly managed to escape.

According to sources, after learning about the incident, SSP Kanwalpreet Singh Chahal suspended a senior constable for alleged negligence. Police officials have so far avoided commenting on the matter.

The incident took place on the night of September 11 in the Rajasansi area. ASI Jaswant Singh, who was posted with the Amritsar Commissionerate Police Lines, was travelling on a motorcycle when two men on another motorcycle allegedly followed him.

One of them reportedly fired at his head. The bullet passed through his turban and grazed his head, causing minor injuries.

Police initially had doubts about the incident, but the case reportedly became clearer after Karan’s arrest.

Investigators suspected that the shooting was linked to an old rivalry. Later, Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan (TTH) also reportedly issued a poster claiming responsibility for the incident, although it contained an incorrect photograph.

Accused arrested with CCTV help

Police arrested Karan based on CCTV footage. He was produced before a court, which granted police five days of remand.

Police were also conducting raids to arrest his alleged associates. However, the accused escaped while being taken to recover the weapon, raising questions about the security arrangements made by the police during the operation.