CHENNAI: A history-sheeter identified as Azhaguraja, also known as ‘Kottu Raja’, was shot dead in a police encounter near Virumanthurai village in Perambalur district on Tuesday (January 27) after he allegedly attacked police personnel with a sickle and attempted to flee while being taken to recover hidden weapons from a forest area.
According to a Daily Thanthi report, Azhaguraja was arrested in connection with an incident on the 24th, in which a bomb was hurled at rowdy Vellaikaali while he was being escorted to court, in an alleged attempt to murder him. Following the incident, five special police teams were formed to track down those involved, leading to the arrest of Azhaguraja.
Subsequently, police took Azhaguraja to the Thirumanthurai forest area in Perambalur district to recover weapons that he had allegedly concealed there. During the operation, he reportedly attacked Assistant Sub-Inspector Shankar with a sickle and tried to escape.
In response, Mangalamedu Inspector of Police Nandakumar opened fire in self-defence, fatally injuring Azhaguraja. He died on the spot.
Assistant Sub-Inspector Shankar, who sustained cut injuries in the attack, has been admitted to a hospital and is currently undergoing treatment.