Lucknow: The Special Task Force (STF), Uttar Pradesh, has achieved a significant success by arresting the leader and an active member of the interstate Barwar gang, wanted under the UP Gangsters Act and declared with rewards. The operation took place in Lucknow on April 7, 2026.
Arrested Accused:
- Harishchandra, son of late Nibare, resident of Baltu Ka Purwa, Bangai, Police Station Dhanepur, Gaonda.
- Sohanlal, son of late Ramrang, resident of Chheda Ka Purwa, Moodadiha, Police Station Dhanepur, Gaonda.
Place, Date & Time of Arrest:
Near the entry/exit gate of Badshahnagar Railway Station, Lucknow on April 7, 2026, at 10:30 AM.
Operation Details:
In recent days, STF received intelligence regarding the active movements of wanted criminals from Uttar Pradesh who were executing robberies, thefts, snatching, and pickpocketing. Acting on these inputs, Pramesh Kumar Shukla, Superintendent of Police, STF, instructed field units to track and apprehend the suspects.
A team led by Sub-Inspector Saurabh Mishra, including Chief Constables Santesh Singh, Rajnish Singh, Neeraj Singh, and Head Constable Commando Rajkumar, conducted reconnaissance in Lucknow. Information from informants revealed that the Barwar gang leader and his associate were near Badshahnagar Railway Station, planning to meet someone. The STF team promptly arrested Harishchandra and Sohanlal at the location.
Gang Activities:
During interrogation, both accused admitted that they had been active members of the Barwar gang for the last 15 years, carrying out robberies, snatching, pickpocketing, and other crimes. The gang usually targets bank customers or individuals purchasing gold and silver, striking when their targets are isolated. The gang typically comprises 4–5 members who monitor their targets and seize cash or valuables when an opportunity arises.
Legal Action:
Both accused have been booked under FIR No. 232/2025, Sections 2/3 of the UP Gangsters Act, Police Station Kunda, Pratapgarh. Local authorities are pursuing further legal proceedings.
Criminal Background:
- Harishchandra has multiple pending cases, including charges under Arms Act, IPC Sections 379, 411, 303, 317, and several other criminal acts across Raebareli, Bahraich, Ayodhya, Sultanpur, and Pratapgarh districts.
- Sohanlal has prior cases under IPC Sections 303, 317, 392, 411, and Arms Act violations across Sultanpur, Raebareli, Bahraich, and Pratapgarh districts.
The arrests mark a major success for STF in curbing organized inter-state criminal networks and enhancing public safety in Lucknow and surrounding districts.
