High-risk manhunt ends in gunfire; notorious offender shot at, arrested

A high-risk police operation in the Yerrakonda forest area of Chilamathur mandal in Sri Sathya Sai district turned violent on Friday (February 06) when a most-wanted offender launched a knife attack on police personnel, forcing officers to open fire in self-defence. The accused, identified as Erukala Kavadi Nagendra, was injured and arrested after a tense operation.

Superintendent of Police S. Satish Kumar said that Nagendra was prime accused in the sensational gang rape case involving a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law in the district, he was traced following reliable information. Acting swiftly, a special team led by Hindupur Rural Circle Inspector Anjaneyulu, along with an SI and four constables, moved in to apprehend him.

As police attempted to capture him, Nagendra allegedly attacked CI Anjaneyulu and constable Ravi with a knife, leaving both injured. Facing an imminent threat, police fired a shot, hitting the accused in the left leg and neutralising him.

The injured police inspector and constable were rushed to the Hindupur Government Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment and reported to be stable. Nagendra is also under medical supervision and police custody.

The SP said Nagendra is a notorious offender with over 90 serious criminal cases, including murder and theft, registered across multiple States. Further investigation is on.