Hyderabad Police Trace Key Witness in Travel Agency Shooting Case

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad police have made significant progress in their investigation into the shooting and robbery incident at a travel agency in Afzalgunj on Thursday. Authorities have traced the auto rickshaw driver who unknowingly transported two suspects believed to be involved in the crime. The incident has left the city on high alert as police race against time to apprehend the perpetrators.

The Crime Unfolds: A Tale of Violence and Escape

The suspects, linked to a deadly heist in Bidar, Karnataka, reportedly shot and injured Jahangir, the manager of a Hyderabad-based travel agency, before fleeing. The shooting took place after Jahangir grew suspicious of the duo’s large luggage bags, believed to contain the Rs. 93 lakhs looted during the earlier heist. When confronted, one of the suspects fired at Jahangir with a pistol, leaving him critically injured.

Following the incident, the suspects escaped in an auto rickshaw, beginning a trail that has since been closely followed by Hyderabad police.

Auto Rickshaw Driver Under Scrutiny

The auto rickshaw driver, who unknowingly played a role in the suspects’ escape, has been identified and is currently being questioned by the police. Investigators hope the driver’s testimony will provide valuable insights into the suspects’ behavior, conversations, and physical descriptions during their escape.

“We are confident that this lead will help us trace the suspects and understand their movements,” an officer involved in the investigation stated.

The Bidar Heist: A Precursor to Chaos

The suspects’ violent spree began earlier on Thursday in Bidar, Karnataka, where they killed two individuals, including a security guard, during a daring robbery at a financial institution. After looting Rs. 93 lakhs, the duo fled on a motorcycle before abandoning it and boarding a bus to Hyderabad.

Upon arrival at Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS), the suspects purchased tickets for a bus to Raipur. It was during this journey that their suspicious behavior caught the attention of the travel agency manager, leading to the confrontation and subsequent shooting.

Tracking the Suspects: A Trail of Clues

After fleeing the scene in Afzalgunj, the suspects made their way to Secunderabad, stopping briefly at Alpha Hotel before continuing their journey toward Medchal in another auto rickshaw. Police investigations revealed that during this time, they purchased new clothes and bags, likely to change their appearance and evade detection.

Authorities have recovered a trolley bag in Trimulgherry, which is believed to have been discarded by the suspects. Forensic experts are examining its contents for evidence that could further aid the investigation.

Nationwide Search Underway

The Hyderabad police, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies across the country, have launched a nationwide search for the suspects, who are believed to be from Bihar. Multiple teams have been deployed to track their movements and apprehend them at the earliest.

“The suspects are highly dangerous and armed. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” a senior police official stated.

The shooting incident and its connection to the Bidar heist have sent shockwaves through both Karnataka and Telangana, with authorities working tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Public Safety and Reassurance

As the investigation continues, the police have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure safety and maintain order in the city. The injured travel agency manager, Jahangir, is receiving medical care and is reported to be in critical condition.

This case, marked by its brutality and complexity, highlights the growing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in tackling organized crime. The police remain steadfast in their commitment to solving the case and ensuring justice is served.