Centre to issue SOP for safety of journalists after Atiq, Ashraf killed in Prayagraj
New Delhi, April 16: Following the killing of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj last night, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safety and security of journalists, top sources said on Sunday.
According to the source, the decision was made after three assailants posing as journalists killed Atiq and Ashraf in Prayagraj.
On Saturday night, Atiq and Ashraf were shot dead in Prayagraj in the full media glare.
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According to Uttar Pradesh Police, the assailants of the jailed gangster and his brother posed as journalists at the scene of the crime.
"The shooters were posing as journalists. As Atiq reached for a check-up, they were surrounded by other journalists and got close to Atiq and his brother. One was having a camera and was posing as a cameraman. Another was roaming around with a mike on which were inscribed the words NCR News. The third was assisting both," police source added.
"As Atiq reached the hospital, reporters started questioning them after 2 lines, one guy fired on his head from very close and Atiq fell down. Another two guys also threw the camera and mike and started firing,"
The firing took place at 10 p.m. and was caught on camera as reporters were following the handcuffed duo, who were being taken to the hospital by police for a medical checkup.
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- ANI
