Jharsuguda, May 30: Odisha Police continued its crackdown on hardened criminals with another major encounter in Jharsuguda district.

The incident took place in the Rengali police station area, where a special team confronted dreaded criminal Jay Chauhan and his associates while they were allegedly planning a large-scale dacoity.

According to reports, Chauhan, a resident of Brajarajnagar’s Gandhichhak locality, opened fire at the police team upon spotting them. In retaliation and self-defence, police fired back, injuring Chauhan in his right leg. He collapsed at the scene and was immediately taken to Jharsuguda District Headquarters Hospital for treatment.

Also read: Notorious Drug Mafia Injured in Police Encounter

Police sources confirmed that Chauhan is a professional criminal with over 10 serious cases registered against him across different police stations, including charges of attempted murder, dacoity, extortion, and violations under the Arms Act. One of his associates managed to escape during the encounter, and police have launched a manhunt to trace him.

This latest incident follows a series of encounters in western Odisha in recent weeks. On May 20, police shot and injured notorious criminal Bunty Suna in Sambalpur after he fired at officers during a chase. Suna, known for ganja smuggling across districts, was hit in the left leg and later shifted to Burla Medical College for treatment.

Similarly, on May 17, police engaged in an encounter with criminal Manish Sahu near Burla Planetarium Square. Sahu fired three rounds at the police during a vehicle check, prompting controlled retaliatory fire. He sustained a bullet injury in his right leg and was admitted to Burla Medical College in critical condition. Police records show Sahu has over 14 criminal cases against him.

These successive encounters highlight Odisha Police’s aggressive stance against organized crime and repeat offenders. Officials say such operations are aimed at restoring public confidence and curbing rising criminal activities in the region.