Lucknow: In a significant breakthrough, the joint efforts of DCP North’s crime team and the Bakshi Ka Talab (BKT) police led to the arrest of Amit Rastogi, a notorious criminal with a ₹25,000 bounty on his head. Rastogi, wanted in over two dozen criminal cases, was apprehended following a dramatic encounter in which he sustained injuries. However, his accomplice, Rahul Gautam, managed to flee the scene, taking advantage of the darkness.
Encounter at Asti Road Turn
The encounter unfolded at the Asti Road turn in the BKT police station area. Acting on a tip-off, a team led by DCP North’s crime team in-charge Vishwanath Pratap Singh and the BKT police station in-charge organized a strategic operation. The intelligence revealed that Amit Rastogi and his associate were planning a criminal act in the vicinity.
Firing During Investigation
As the police moved to corner the suspects, Amit Rastogi opened fire in a bid to escape. The police responded with retaliatory fire in self-defense, resulting in Rastogi being shot and injured. The team swiftly apprehended the injured criminal, but Rahul Gautam escaped, leveraging the poor visibility.
Weapons and Vehicle Recovered
During the operation, the police recovered:
- A country-made pistol,
- Live cartridges,
- A motorcycle, and
- Other suspicious items linked to criminal activities.
Authorities are now investigating how Rastogi used these items in his extensive criminal undertakings.
Hard Work Pays Off for DCP North’s Team
This arrest marks a major accomplishment for DCP North’s crime team and the BKT police. The operation’s success is attributed to the meticulous planning and vigilance of crime team in-charge Vishwanath Pratap Singh and BKT police station in-charge. Their dedication and swift action have dealt a significant blow to organized crime in the region.
Amit Rastogi’s Criminal History
Amit Rastogi’s criminal record includes over 24 cases, spanning:
- Robbery,
- Attempted murder,
- Kidnapping,
- Illegal extortion, and
- Arms smuggling.
Rastogi had been evading arrest for a considerable period, making his apprehension a notable success for law enforcement.
Search for Rahul Gautam Underway
The police have intensified efforts to locate Rahul Gautam, Rastogi’s absconding partner. DCP North stated that multiple raids are being conducted to track him down. Gautam’s arrest is expected to provide crucial insights into their criminal operations.
Impact of the Arrest
This decisive action by the Lucknow Police sends a strong message to the criminal underworld: no one is beyond the reach of the law. The swift response to Rastogi’s activities has not only instilled fear among criminals but also reinforced public trust in the police force.
The ongoing investigation aims to uncover further details about Rastogi’s network and activities. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen what additional revelations emerge regarding the duo’s plans and previous crimes. The Lucknow Police’s commitment to curbing crime continues to set a benchmark for effective law enforcement in the region.
