Delhi: In a major operation early Thursday, four most-wanted gangsters from Bihar, affiliated with the notorious Sigma Gang, were killed in a police encounter in Northwest Delhi. The shootout, which took place at 2.20 am, involved teams from both Delhi and Bihar Police.
Encounter details and operation
Delhi Police sources said the encounter occurred when officers attempted to intercept the gang members, who opened fire while trying to escape. The police retaliated, injuring all four gangsters. They were immediately rushed to Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Rohini, where they were declared dead by doctors.
“The area was secured and cordoned off immediately following the encounter. Forensic teams collected evidence from the site,” a Delhi Police official said.
Identities of the slain gangsters
The deceased have been identified as Ranjan Pathak (25), Bimlesh Mahto (25), Manish Pathak (33), and Aman Thakur (21). Ranjan Pathak, the leader of the gang, had a bounty of Rs 25,000 on his head and was wanted in eight criminal cases, including five high-profile murders in Sitamarhi and adjoining districts of Bihar.
Over the years, the Sigma Gang built a network involved in extortion, contract killings, and organised crime across Bihar. Delhi Police confirmed that all four were wanted for multiple heinous crimes, including murder and extortion.
Gang leader’s defiance of authorities
Delhi Police sources revealed that Pathak had been openly challenging law enforcement through social media posts and audio messages. A recently recovered audio clip reportedly outlined a major conspiracy that the gang intended to execute ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections.
“The gang had been active for nearly seven years and was regrouping in Delhi to evade action in Bihar. Police had been tracking their movements for several days before the operation,” said a senior officer.
Aftermath and ongoing investigation
Following the encounter, security was heightened in the area, and forensic teams were deployed to gather crucial evidence. Police have launched a detailed investigation to trace the remaining network of the Sigma Gang and determine possible links to other criminal activities.
The operation marks a significant achievement in law enforcement efforts against organised crime networks from Bihar operating in the national capital. Authorities have assured that they will continue to monitor and dismantle gang operations to prevent similar threats.