Three, including two policemen, were injured in the Patna encounter

An encounter between police and criminals took place early Sunday (August 30, 2026) along the Son river near Patna. The clash took place during an enforcement operation targeting individuals who were extorting local boatmen, police said.

While one of the perpetrators sustained a bullet injury in the leg in the shootout, one Sub-Inspector (SI) Raju Kumar Singh was also injured after a bullet hit his hand. Amit Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of Bihita police station, sustained head injuries.

According to Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kartikey Kumar Sharma, a total of 62 shots were fired during the confrontation.

“On August 30, the police received information about illegal mining, during which the boatmen were being intimidated and extorted for protection money. After that, a special police team was formed under the leadership of senior officials,” Mr. Sharma said in a media briefing.

“The police team signaled the suspected criminals to stop who were heading to the boat to collect the extortion money. When the criminals saw the police team, they suddenly opened fire on the police,” he added.

The injured criminal, identified as Aneesh Kumar, was admitted to Patna Medical College and Hospital for treatment, the SSP said. “During the firing, one policeman’s hand was hit by a bullet and a station house officer was also injured. The police retaliated in self-defence in which the criminal Aneesh Kumar was injured.”

He added that around 40 shots were fired by the criminals and about 22 shots by the police during the encounter. Other criminals jumped into the river and fled while their associate Piyush Kumar was arrested from the boat.

Mr. Sharma pointed out that Aneesh Kumar has a criminal record. An AK-47 belonging to him was recovered in a similar incident last year, the officer said, adding that six more cases were registered against him. The arrested person, Piyush Kumar, also has a criminal record.

During the police operation, a large number of illegal arms and ammunition were recovered, which include 3 national pistols, 1 rifle, 1 home-made carbine and 25 live rounds.

“The police are further investigating their criminal history and other aspects related to the incident. The police team immediately confronted the criminals and carried out an effective crackdown. The Patna police continue to work tirelessly and effectively against crime, extortion and illegal weapons,” he said. Sharma said.

Published – 30 Aug 2026 13:23 IST