Dreaded gangster shot dead in encounter with police in Bihar’s Madhubani district

Gangster Ranjit Mahto alias Ranjit Don was accused in three murder, two attempt to murder, eight robbery, four dacoity and three extortion cases lodged in Bihar’s Madhubani and Sitamarhi districts.

A dreaded gangster was shot dead in an encounter with police in Madhubani district, 173 km northeast of Patna, on Wednesday morning.

At least 35 to 40 rounds were fired during the encounter in Madhubani district of Bihar. (HT file photo)

Police said Ranjit Mahto alias Ranjit Don, carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 on his head, was killed in the encounter with a joint team of Madhubani police and special task force (STF) on the outskirts of Gobrahi village in the district.

“At least 35 to 40 rounds were fired during the encounter which began at 3.30 am and lasted for 45 minutes. Two carbine and many live cartridges were found at the encounter site. Mahto’s three accomplices, however, managed to escape from the spot,” the police added.

Villagers said the encounter ensued after 30 plainclothesmen came in vehicles and encircled a brick kiln on the outskirts of Gobrahi.

In Patna, inspector general (operation) Kundan Krishnan confirmed that the dreaded criminal was killed in a joint operation by the STF and Madhubani district police. Mahto was accused in three murder, two attempt to murder, eight robbery, four dacoity and three extortion cases lodged in Madhubani and adjoining Sitamarhi district, he said.

Mahto and members of his gang had allegedly looted a petrol pump at Khajauli, 28 km from Madhubani town recently, and fired at police team with carbines. Thereafter, they are reported to have looted a jewellery shop.