Where’s night patrol? Bullets fly near Durgapuri Metro station, 1 dead

LUCKNOW: Cocking a snook at claims of stringent night patrolling, two assailants opened fire on two businessmen and looted Rs 2 lakh near Durgapuri Metro station in Alambagh on Sunday night. The victims, Manoj Bhattacharya (45) and Ashu Bajaj (48) were rushed to KGMU Trauma Centre, where the former was declared brought dead.
“Around 10pm, Bhattacharya went to drop Bajaj, a dealer of digital wrist watches in Delhi, to Charbagh railway station on a two-wheeler. When the duo reached near Durgapuri Metro station, two bikeborne youths intercepted them and a verbal spat ensued. In a fit of rage, the man riding pillion opened fire on Bhattacharya and the bullet pierced his shoulder. Before Bajaj realised, several rounds were fired and one of the bullets also grazed past him,” said Sanjeev Sinha, circle officer, Alambagh.
Assailants fled with cash bag
Before fleeing, the accused took away a bag stashed with Rs 2 lakh and clothes, Sinha said. Hearing gun shots, locals rushed to the spot and informed the police. Police took the injured to a hospital in Alambagh, where doctors referred them to KGMU trauma centre. IG Lucknow range SK Bhagat told TOI the motive of the murder is yet to the ascertained. “Prima facie it seems an argument took place between businessmen and killers over a monetary issue. But it is yet to be substantiated," he added.