Rape bid and murder accused killed in police encounter in Lucknow

A rape and murder accused, Ajay, was shot dead by police in an encounter in Lucknow's Malihabad. The accused had brutally assaulted and killed a 32-year-old woman returning from Varanasi after a job interview. She had boarded a tempo, but the driver diverted the route to Malihabad, where the crime occurred.

Despite her alerts to family and police, no immediate action was taken, leading to the suspension of seven officers. Ajay, a known gangster with over 23 cases against him, attempted to flee towards Hardoi but was intercepted by police. When he opened fire, officers retaliated, fatally wounding him. He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead.

A bounty of ₹1 lakh had been placed on his capture. His accomplice, Dinesh, was arrested earlier. The police operation involved multiple teams, including Lucknow Crime Branch and Thakurganj police. Forensic teams are collecting evidence from the encounter site. Authorities claim this is a major success in ensuring justice for the victim.