Jewellery Trader Shot Dead in Uttar Pradesh; Accused Arrested After Brief Encounter

A jewellery trader was shot dead on Friday night in Banda, triggering widespread panic and protests among local traders and residents. The accused was arrested within hours following a police operation that culminated in an encounter, during which he sustained gunshot injuries to both legs.

The victim, identified as Tej Soni, a respected businessman from the Baberu Kotwali area, had reportedly gone to the market for work when he was attacked. According to police, the assailant opened fire at close range, with a bullet striking Soni in the chest. He collapsed on the spot and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

The sound of gunfire caused immediate panic in the marketplace, prompting bystanders to alert authorities. Senior police officials, including Superintendent of Police Palash Bansal, arrived at the scene and initiated an investigation. The body was later sent for post-mortem examination.

The incident sparked anger among the victim’s family members and the local business community, who staged protests and demanded swift action. Police assured strict measures, which helped restore calm in the area.

Acting promptly, the police formed multiple teams and launched a manhunt. Within approximately two hours, the accused—identified as 60-year-old Aslam—was traced and surrounded. During the operation, he allegedly opened fire at the police, leading to retaliatory action in which he was shot in both legs and subsequently apprehended.

The injured accused was admitted to the district hospital and remains under treatment. Police sources stated that during his capture, he repeatedly pleaded for forgiveness, saying he had made a mistake.

Preliminary investigations suggest that both the accused and the victim had previously worked together in Mumbai. After returning to Banda, a dispute reportedly arose over financial settlements. Police believe this disagreement escalated into a confrontation, culminating in the fatal shooting.

Officials also recovered certain items, including a liquor bottle, from the crime scene, which are being examined as part of the investigation.

A formal complaint has been registered based on statements from the victim’s family, and further legal proceedings are underway. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the sequence of events leading up to the crime.