Tarn Taran sarpanch murder: Main accused held after police encounter

TARN TARAN: Tarn Taran Police on Sunday apprehended one of the main accused in the Sidhu Farm sarpanch murder case along with his associate after an exchange of fire.Police said there was a brief gunfight between the accused and the police team during the operation.In a post on X, Tarn Taran Police stated that both accused were injured in the exchange and were admitted to hospital for treatment."Sidhu Farm Sarpanch Murder Case, One main accused, along with his accomplice, apprehended after an exchange of fire. Both sustained injuries and were hospitalised. 02 pistols recovered. Investigation ongoing," the police posted.The sarpanch of Thathian Mahantan village in Punjab was shot dead during a wedding function in the Sarhali police station area of Tarn Taran on Wednesday.Speaking to ANI, Tarn Taran SSP Surinder Lamba said the deceased, Harbhendra Singh, was attending the ceremony when two unidentified assailants opened fire."Today, while the deceased Harbhendra Singh was attending the wedding, being held in the Sarhali police station jurisdiction, two unknown men attacked him and opened fire, leaving him seriously injured and dying on the way to the hospital," he said.SSP Lamba added that Singh’s companion, who attempted to chase the attackers, was shot in the leg and is undergoing treatment."His companion, who tried to chase the attackers, was shot in the leg in the crossfire and is undergoing treatment. No threats, extortion, or targeting by any gangster have been identified in this case. The angle of personal enmity is also being looked into," he said.Police have confirmed the use of a 9mm weapon and are also examining reports suggesting the possible use of an AK-47."A weapon with a 9mm primer size has been identified. Some people have reported the use of AK-47, and we are investigating it. The deceased was the current Sarpanch of Thatian," Lamba said.