Chain-Snatcher Shot and Arrested in Police Encounter in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad
Ghaziabad : In a significant breakthrough against rising street crimes, the Kaushambi police team arrested a wanted chain-snatcher after an armed encounter near the 5/6 culvert service road towards Vaishali Cut on Thursday morning. The accused, Sahil Verma, 23, sustained a bullet injury to his leg during the exchange of fire and was later sent for medical treatment under police custody.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Encounter
The incident unfolded during routine vehicle checks when police personnel spotted a man riding an Activa scooter at high speed. Upon being signaled to stop, the suspect attempted to flee, triggering suspicion. As the police gave chase, the man fired twice at the team, narrowly missing the officers. The scooter eventually skidded and fell, after which the accused again opened fire at the police in a final act of desperation. The police returned fire in self-defense, injuring the assailant in his right leg.
Recovered Items and Identity
The accused was identified as Sahil Verma, son of Rajesh Verma, a resident of Sector 3, Block F, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, and a native of Gol Market, Hapur Dehat, Hapur. From his possession, police recovered:
- One country-made pistol (tamanchā)
- One live cartridge and two used shells
- A stolen gold-colored chain
- A scooter reported stolen from Aruna Park, Delhi, about 8-9 months ago
Shocking Confessions During Interrogation
During interrogation, Sahil revealed that he, along with his associate Amit (a resident of Khoda, living in a rented accommodation), had been involved in multiple snatchings and thefts across the city. According to his confession, the duo:
- Snatched a gold chain from a woman in front of Max Hospital, Sector 1, Vaishali roughly 9–10 days ago
- Stole a mobile phone from a pedestrian near Express Apartments, Sector 4, Vaishali, the following day, and sold it for ₹2,500
- Frequently used stolen vehicles to evade detection and carry out their crimes
Criminal Background
Sahil Verma has a history of criminal activity, with at least six FIRs registered against him in Ghaziabad and Delhi-NCR, related to theft, snatching, and Arms Act violations. Authorities are currently probing further into his past and potential connections to other unsolved cases.
Police Statement
The Kaushambi Police Team, which led the successful operation, reiterated their commitment to public safety and warned miscreants against testing the law. “Criminal elements using weapons and attempting to harm police personnel will face firm action,” said a senior officer involved in the operation.
Current Status
Sahil Verma is under treatment at a government hospital, and further legal proceedings are underway. A manhunt has been launched for his accomplice, Amit.
