Hazaribagh, August 29, 2026: Police conducted an operation against alleged opium trafficking and armed criminal activity near Hathiya Baba Temple in Chauparan on Saturday, August 29, resulting in one suspect being injured in an exchange of fire and two others being arrested.
According to police, the operation followed confidential information received by the Superintendent of Police that suspicious persons carrying weapons were present around the temple and were allegedly involved in the purchase and sale of opium.
A team led by Chauparan police station in-charge Pankaj Kumar launched a raid after receiving the information.
Police say suspect opened fire while fleeing
Police said several people present at the location attempted to flee when the team arrived. Two suspects were caught at the spot, while another allegedly ran towards a forested area.
According to the police account, the fleeing suspect opened fire at the police team. Police then returned fire in self-defence, during which the suspect was injured.
The injured man was identified as Ajay Singh, a resident of Chapi village under Barachatti police station in Bihar’s Gaya district. Police said he sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
Injured suspect referred to RIMS
Singh was initially taken to the Barhi Community Health Centre for treatment. He was later referred to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, due to the seriousness of his condition.
His current medical condition was not provided in the source material.
Two pistols, ammunition and opium reportedly recovered
Police reported recovering two country-made pistols, live cartridges and spent cartridges from the scene.
Opium was also reportedly seized during the operation. However, the police have not yet publicly disclosed the total quantity of opium recovered.
Identities of two arrested suspects not disclosed
The identities of the two other people arrested during the operation have not been released by police.
Chauparan police station in-charge Pankaj Kumar confirmed the incident and the police action. Investigators are examining the alleged opium trade and are also working to determine whether other people were involved.
The account of the exchange of fire is based on the police version. The source material does not include an independent account from the injured suspect or the arrested individuals.
