A suspected cow thief was injured in an exchange of fire with police in the Lanka area of Hojai district on Saturday. The injured individual, identified as Azarul Islam from Rupahi in Nagaon district, is currently undergoing treatment at Nagaon Civil Hospital.
The incident occurred when police, acting on a tip-off, intercepted a gang allegedly involved in cow theft. The gang, using a luxury Maruti Swift car, attempted to evade arrest by breaching a police barricade near Sankardev Nagar Police Outpost.
A high-speed chase ensued, leading to a shootout between the police and the gang. During the exchange of fire, Azarul Islam sustained bullet injuries. Three other gang members managed to escape, while a police officer suffered minor injuries.
At the scene, police recovered a 0.765 mm pistol, ammunition, a stolen cow, and the luxury car used by the gang.
Local residents have expressed growing concerns over the recent rise in cow theft incidents in the area. Police have assured the public that they are taking stringent measures to apprehend the remaining suspects and curb such criminal activities.