Hyderabad DCP Chaitanya opens fire during theft attempt in Chaderghat; one suspect injured

Hyderabad: Tension prevailed for a while in Chaderghat on Saturday evening when Hyderabad South-East Zone DCP S Chaitanya Kumar opened fire during an attempt to nab two cellphone snatchers.

The incident occurred near Victory Playground, leaving one of the suspects injured. Police Commissioner CV Sajjanar said the DCP acted in self-defence after the accused attacked him and his gunman with a knife.

DCP spots thieves, gives chase

Speaking to media persons after visiting the injured DCP at at a private hospital, Sajjanar said that DCP Chaitanya was returning from a meeting at the Police Commissioner’s office when he noticed two men attempting to snatch a mobile phone. The DCP and his gunman immediately chased the suspects to intercept them.

As the officers closed in near Victory Playground, one of the suspects lunged at DCP Chaitanya with a knife, causing him to stumble and fall. In the scuffle, both the DCP and his gunman briefly lost balance. Acting swiftly, DCP Chaitanya regained control and opened fire at the fleeing suspects.

Firing in Self-Defence

The CP further said thagt three rounds were fired by DCP Chaitanya in self-defence. One of the suspects sustained bullet injuries and was immediately shifted to Nampally Hospital for treatment. The second accused managed to flee and is currently being tracked by police teams.

Sajjanar also confirmed that the injured suspect is Omar, a notorious history-sheeter involved in several theft and snatching cases. The commissioner stated that the DCP’s response was justified as the accused had attempted to attack with a deadly weapon.

Omar’s Criminal Past

Preliminary investigations revealed that Omar has 25 criminal cases pending against him across various police stations. He has been booked twice under the Preventive Detention (PD) Act—first by Kamatipura Police in 2016 and again by Hussaini Alam Police in 2020.

Omar served separate one-year terms in Chanchalguda Jail, but reportedly continued his criminal activities after release. He is also listed as a rowdy-sheeter at Kalapathar Police Station, where two more cases were recently registered against him.

"The DCP’s swift and decisive action prevented a possible tragedy and ensured public safety. The officer acted lawfully and in self-defence. The situation is under control, and an investigation is ongoing,” the Hyderabad Police Commissioner said.

Probe Underway

The police have formed special teams to trace the absconding suspect and verify Omar’s criminal background. Officials said a detailed report will be submitted after the inquiry.

Meanwhile, the injured suspect remains under police custody at the hospital, and his condition is said to be stable.

Senior officers visit spot

Soon after the incident, along with Sajjanar, South Zone DCP Sneha Mehra and Central Zone DCP Shilpavali, visited the scene to examine the circumstances of the firing.