Wanted criminal injured in police encounter

Kendrapara: Notorious criminal Seikh Lala, wanted in several cases was arrested by the Kendrapara police following an encounter near Alabanka under Sadar police station on Wednesday morning.

Lala, who received bullet wounds on his left leg during the exchange of fire, has been admitted to the SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH) in Cuttack.

Sources said more than 15 cases were pending against Lala in police stations of Jajpur, Kendrapara and other districts in the State. A special team of police under Kendrapara SP had been after Lala since a long time, informed police sources.

Acting on a tipoff, the cops intercepted Lala between Haladia and Alabanka area in the wee hours today. Trying to resist the arrest, he fired two rounds of bullet. The police officers back fired in retaliation leaving him injured.

Lala was first rushed to Kendrapara District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) and later shifted to SCBMCH.

"He was brought here by the Kendrapara Sadar Inspector-in-charge (IIC). After preliminary treatment, we referred him to Cuttack. He has received bullet injuries on his left leg," informed Manas Jena, a doctor at the Kendrapara DHH.