Proclaimed Offender 'Seizing' Raja Fatally Shot by Police After Escape Attempt

Raja, a proclaimed offender with 39 serious criminal charges including six murders, was fatally shot by police in Chennai after attempting to escape custody. He had been apprehended in Andhra Pradesh and was being escorted to recover hidden weapons when he tried to flee and fired at police officers.

Raja, a proclaimed offender known for his numerous criminal activities, was shot dead by Chennai police on Monday after he attempted to escape custody. The incident occurred when police were escorting him to recover weapons he had hidden. Raja, who had a total of 39 serious criminal cases against him, fired at the police team, prompting them to retaliate in self-defense.

According to police sources, Raja was initially cooperating but attempted to flee when they reached the third location. He managed to fire twice but missed, leading an inspector to fire back, resulting in Raja's fatal injuries. He was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram criticized the encounter, describing it as reflective of bad policing practices. This incident marks the third police encounter death in Chennai since July, raising concerns over the effectiveness of law enforcement and criminal justice in the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)