Bhadrak police injured suspect in dawn encounter.

In the early hours of Thursday, a tense situation unfolded in Odisha's Bhadrak district as police officers engaged in a gunfight with a notorious criminal. According to an official statement, the incident occurred at around 3 am in the Nuasahi area, falling under the jurisdiction of Bhadrak Rural police station. The miscreant, identified as Prafulla Mallik, also known as Pappu, sustained a gunshot wound on his right leg during the encounter.

Fortunately, his condition is stable, as confirmed by Dr. Rakesh Behera from the District Headquarters Hospital. After receiving initial treatment, Pappu was transferred to SCB Medical College Hospital in Cuttack for further medical attention.

Reports suggest that he has been involved in over 25 criminal cases in both Bhadrak and Balasore districts. The police had been on the lookout for him and finally located him at his hideout, where he was allegedly planning a robbery with an accomplice. As soon as the officers approached, Pappu opened fire, prompting the police team to retaliate.

This resulted in the injury on his leg, as stated by one of the officers involved in the operation. Upon searching the scene, the police recovered a country-made gun, two used cartridges, and two live rounds of ammunition. However, Pappu's associate managed to escape before the police could apprehend him.

This incident has caused quite a stir in the community, with many expressing their concerns about the increasing crime rate in the area. The local newspaper, Orissa POST, has also reported on the incident, labeling it as Odisha's No.1 English Daily. Further investigations are underway to ensure the safety and security of the citizens.