Phulbani: Muna Digal, a ganja peddler wanted in connection with the attack on officer in-charge of Gocchapada police station, was nabbed following an encounter with police at Brahmani forest under Sadar police limits in Kandhamal district Monday.
Muna sustained bullet injuries in his right leg during an exchange of fire with police and was admitted to the district headquarters hospital (DHH) here in a critical condition. Fearing he might flee the spot, police are keeping a vigil on him while he is under treatment.
According to police, Muna nursed a grudge against Gochhapada OIC over ganja smuggling. The OIC had warned him of consequences if he did not refrain from his illegal activities. Since then, he was planning to settle scores with the official.
Recently, Muna got an occasion to attack the OIC with a sword before absconding. Meanwhile, the condition of the OIC remains critical and is under treatment.
Since then, a special team led by Phulbani IIC Subrat Rout was keeping a watch on Muna’s movements. Meanwhile, on a tip-off that Muna was seeking shelter in Brahmani forest, the police picketed the area. Sensing police presence, Muna fired three rounds at the cops and tried to escape into the forest. In retaliation, the police fired a bullet which hit him on his right knee.
Police seized a country-made pistol and a bike from Muna’s possession.
“More than 11 cases are pending against him in various police stations in the district. A non-bailable arrest warrant was also issued against him,” said Kandhamal police sources.
PNN