Puri Police Confrontation: Infamous Criminal Pinu Injured in Exchange of Fire

Puri: Notorious criminal Pinaki Baral, also known as Pinu, who is facing multiple pending criminal cases, was wounded in a police encounter in Puri on Thursday. Acting on intelligence information about a planned robbery, a police team led by Baseli Sahi Police Station IIC, Manas Barik, swiftly launched an operation.

The confrontation occurred near Sankareshwar forest, close to Loknath Temple in Puri. A gunfire exchange ensued between the police team and the criminal. Pinu was eventually apprehended, sustaining a gunshot wound to his left leg. He was rushed to Puri district hospital for medical attention.

The police also managed to seize significant evidence, including a pistol, two rounds of live ammunition, a two-wheeler, and a mobile phone, from the scene. During the exchange, Sub-Inspector B Majhi from Baseli Sahi PS incurred a minor injury as well.

Sources reveal that Pinu is linked to more than 11 criminal cases, involving charges such as attempted murder, assault, robbery, and extortion. Puri Additional SP, Sushil Mishra, highlighted that the police operation was a part of an ongoing initiative targeting hardened criminals.

Despite attempts to coax Pinu into surrendering peacefully, he responded with gunfire, prompting the police to defend themselves. Mishra explained that Pinu’s leg injury occurred during the exchange, necessitating his immediate medical treatment.