Wanted criminal killed in encounter, aide held

Lucknow, Dec 9 (UNI) Police today gunned down a notorious criminal, who was escaping after firing at two people, in Kanpur (rural) district.

History-sheeter Nirmal Kotharia had a heated exchange of words with Laate Mubarakpur village residents Ram Kishan and Ashok Gupta.

He was absconding after targetting the duo, when cops laid a trap and eliminated the hardened criminal this evening.

Police also swooped upon his accomplice Rajendra. The other gang members, however, managed to flew the coop.

In the ensuing encounter, three policemen, including station in charge J N Pandey, were also severely wounded and admitted to hospital.

A pistol and a large number of cartridges were recovered from the spot, police said.

A manhunt had been launched to nab his associates.

UNI