Ashwani Kumar, the owner of a medical store, has been apprehended in Salasar, Rajasthan, following his alleged involvement in the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh, known as Jhota. Kumar had been on the run since the incident, which took place in Mansa district, Punjab. According to a Punjab Police officer, he was arrested late last night and is currently being transported back to Mansa for further legal proceedings. The police confirmed that a first information report (FIR) regarding the murder is set to be filed this morning.

Background of the Incident

The tragic event unfolded on the morning of Tuesday, when Jhota visited a retail pharmacy in Mansa and accused the store owner of drug peddling. In a video that has circulated widely on social media, Ashwani Kumar is reportedly seen firing at Jhota following the accusation. Four other individuals sustained injuries during the incident, as Kumar allegedly discharged his weapon multiple times in a crowded market area. Medical reports indicate that Jhota suffered three gunshot wounds, two in the abdomen and one in the right thigh, according to Senior Medical Officer Gurmail Singh.

In the aftermath of the shooting, tensions escalated in Mansa. Jhota’s supporters reacted by vandalising Kumar’s medical shop, expressing their outrage over the incident. Furthermore, Jhota’s family has reportedly refused to proceed with his cremation until justice is served. A heavy police presence has been established outside the Civil Hospital, where Jhota’s body is being held, to maintain order amid the unrest.

Jhota’s family initially hesitated to lodge a formal complaint against Kumar, stating they would only do so if he was captured. However, following Kumar’s arrest, the deceased’s father has agreed to provide a statement to the police. The police officer involved in the case confirmed that they are in the process of filing the FIR, which will formally initiate legal proceedings against Kumar.

Previous Incidents Involving Jhota

In a related context, it has been reported that Jhota and his supporters had previously confronted Kumar in 2023. They allegedly garlanded him with shoes and paraded him through the market after a man was discovered in possession of banned capsules that were reportedly sourced from Kumar’s shop. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding drug-related activities in the region.

The police have already apprehended an associate of Kumar, who is believed to have assisted him in fleeing Mansa following the murder. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to gather more evidence and testimonies related to the case. The situation remains fluid as the community grapples with the implications of the violent incident and seeks accountability.

The Punjab Police are expected to provide updates on the investigation and any further developments regarding the case against Ashwani Kumar. The community’s response to the incident underscores the broader issues related to drug abuse and activism in the region, as local residents demand justice for Jhota and a crackdown on illegal drug activities.

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