JALANDHAR – The investigation into the brutal double murder in New Dashmesh Nagar has taken a chilling turn, as notorious gangster Joga Pholriwal, currently believed to be operating from abroad, has publicly claimed responsibility for the killings. The incident, which claimed the lives of Simranjit Singh (alias Pappu) and Saurabh, has sent shockwaves through the city and ignited a fierce debate over police accountability.
A Calculated Execution
The violence unfolded last Friday in the Basti area, where assailants launched a rapid-fire attack on the victims. Simranjit Singh was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, while Saurabh succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
According to intelligence gathered by investigators, the attackers had conducted thorough reconnaissance of the victims, executing a meticulously planned ambush. Evidence suggests the shooters were equipped with a pistol and at least 15 rounds of ammunition.
Retaliation Motive
In a brazen Instagram story, Joga Pholriwal claimed the murders were an act of vengeance. He alleged that the victims had harmed his associate, Sukhman Brar, while incarcerated, prompting the “retaliation.”
The post also revealed that the deceased, Pappu, had previously been associated with Pholriwal’s gang before a falling out. The gangster concluded his post by issuing an open threat to Saurabh’s remaining associates, stating that those “inside or outside the jail” would be next, and signed off on behalf of the “Khatri Group Nawanshahr,” a move investigators fear signals an escalating gang war.
Police Scrutiny and Public Outrage
While law enforcement has identified seven named suspects and is actively pursuing two unidentified individuals, the department is facing intense public scrutiny.
Families of the deceased have levelled grave allegations against the Bhargav Camp police station. Relatives claim that a complaint regarding an ongoing dispute was filed just one day prior to the murders. They allege that they explicitly warned an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the potential for violence, yet claim no preventative action was taken.
“Had the police acted firmly when we first reported the threat, two lives would have been saved,” a family member stated, echoing the growing outrage among local residents.
Current Investigation Status
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Active Raids: Police teams are conducting continuous raids across Jalandhar and neighbouring districts to apprehend the named suspects.
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Evidence Collection: Authorities are currently verifying the authenticity of the social media threats and analysing forensic evidence from the crime scene.
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Status of Arrests: While rumours of detentions and weapons recovery have circulated, the police department has not yet issued an official statement confirming any arrests in connection to the specific murders.
As the city remains on edge, the police are under increasing pressure to contain the situation and prove their effectiveness in curbing the influence of foreign-based gang networks.
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