Inspector General V. Balakrishnan has explained the circumstances behind the encounter killing of rowdy “Kotturaja” following a violent incident involving police officers and a gang that attacked a prisoner escort team.
The explanation was given after the injured sub-inspector Sankari was taken to Perambalur Government Hospital for treatment.
According to IG Balakrishnan, on January 24, police were escorting a criminal from Dindigul to Chennai when a gang threw a country-made bomb at the vehicle, injuring one officer.
In response to the attack, five special teams were formed to track down the suspects.
Police later found and brought in one of the accused, identified as Kotturaja, who faced several serious cases including murder, attempted murder, and arms offences.
After questioning him, police took him to a spot near Mangalamedu customs office to recover hidden weapons and explosives.
While searching for the concealed arms, Kotturaja allegedly threw a bomb at police and then attacked Sub-Inspector Sankar with a machete.
To protect themselves, officers opened fire, and Kotturaja was shot dead on the spot.
The encounter and investigation are being reviewed, and the first information report (FIR) has been registered accordingly.