NEW DELHI: A Delhi Police constable sustained injuries after being attacked with a knife by a robbery suspect during a patrol in central Delhi’s Raj Park area, officials said on Monday. The accused, who had allegedly robbed a rickshaw-puller of ₹500, was later arrested. Police stated that with his arrest, one robbery and two theft cases have been solved.
Rickshaw-puller alerts police about robbery
According to officials, the incident occurred on 22 November, when constable Vikash was on routine night patrol in the Raj Park beat area. He was approached by Md Kamal, a rickshaw-puller, who informed him that a youth had robbed him near Gaushala Road, Ghode Wali Gali. Kamal told the constable that the accused had forcibly taken cash from him while he was waiting for passengers and immediately pointed out the direction in which the suspect had fled.
Police chase leads to violent confrontation
Acting swiftly on the complaint, constable Vikash began searching the nearby lanes and soon spotted a man matching the complainant’s description. When the constable attempted to stop him for questioning, the suspect tried to flee, resulting in a brief chase through the narrow Gali stretch of Raj Park. During the attempt to apprehend him, the suspect pulled out a knife and attacked constable Vikash, injuring his hand and arm. Despite the assault, the constable, supported by locals who rushed to help, managed to overpower and restrain the attacker. Vikash was taken to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
Accused arrested, linked to multiple cases
The accused was taken into custody, and the stolen ₹500 was recovered. During interrogation, he allegedly admitted to robbing the rickshaw-puller and confessed his involvement in two other thefts reported from the area. Police confirmed that the arrest has helped solve one robbery and two pending theft cases. According to officials, the accused is a habitual offender who had recently begun targeting vulnerable individuals, including labourers and rickshaw-pullers.
Police commend constable’s presence of mind
Senior officers praised constable Vikash for his presence of mind and bravery during the confrontation. A senior official stated that his quick action helped ensure the arrest of a repeat offender who had caused distress among residents in the locality. Additional medical support has been provided to the injured constable, and his recovery is being monitored.
Patrols intensified in Raj Park area
The incident has prompted the police to increase night patrols in Raj Park and surrounding areas, particularly around Gaushala Road, where recent petty crimes have been reported. Verification drives of known offenders have also been intensified. Police officials said additional beat constables will monitor high-risk areas to prevent further incidents and ensure safety for residents and on-duty personnel. Residents expressed concern about rising cases of petty theft, but welcomed the swift action taken by the police.
Conclusion
The attack on constable Vikash during a routine patrol underscores the risks faced by police personnel in densely populated neighbourhoods. With the suspect’s arrest, police believe a significant threat has been curtailed, and enhanced patrolling is expected to improve the overall sense of safety in Raj Park.