2 Himanshu Bhau gang shooters held after STF encounter in Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra: Haryana Police's Special Task Force (STF) on Tuesday arrested two alleged shooters linked to the Himanshu Bhau gang after an encounter near Ratangarh village in Kurukshetra district.The accused, identified as Harsh Singh and Kashish Luthra of Amritsar, allegedly opened fire when an STF team intercepted them during a checking operation in Shahabad area, police said.A bullet struck the bulletproof jacket of sub-inspector Praveen Kumar during the exchange of fire. Police retaliated, injuring both accused in their legs before overpowering them.The STF recovered two foreign-made PX-5.7 pistols, cartridges and mobile phones from their possession. Officials said around 30 rounds were fired during the encounter.Both accused were admitted to hospital for treatment.Police said the arrests foiled a major murder conspiracy allegedly being planned in Haryana. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway.