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Raebareli (Uttar Pradesh), April 26 (IANS) A criminal carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 was injured in an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Police in Raebareli early on Sunday, officials said.

The action was carried out under the police's ongoing 'Operation Langda', a special drive aimed at cracking down on criminals and habitual offenders across the state.

According to officials, the encounter took place during routine checking of suspicious individuals and vehicles in the area.

Police said the accused were travelling in a container truck and attempted to flee after spotting the police team deployed for checking.

When intercepted, the criminals allegedly opened fire on the police personnel, prompting retaliatory action from the team.

During the exchange of fire, one of the accused sustained a bullet injury in the leg, while his accomplice managed to escape from the spot.

The injured accused has been identified as Najmuddin, who is described as a notorious criminal carrying a bounty of Rs 50,000 and is reportedly a resident of Bareilly.

Following the encounter, Najmuddin was taken into custody and admitted to the district hospital for treatment.

Police also recovered a country-made pistol, ammunition, and the container truck from his possession.

The incident occurred near an ITBP post within the jurisdiction of the Dalmau Kotwali police station area.

Efforts are underway to trace and arrest the absconding accomplice, officials added.

Further details are awaited.

'Operation Langda' is a law enforcement initiative in Uttar Pradesh, India, that began in May 2025 as a measure to combat crime. In this "shoot-to-disable" method, police aim for the legs of suspects during reported encounters to incapacitate them.

This strategy focuses on habitual offenders and those with extensive criminal records to reduce crime, often resulting in arrests after counter-firing.

--IANS

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