NEW DELHI: In a significant breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of Haryana Police has apprehended the notorious gangster Rakesh alias Kala Khairmpuria at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi. Khairmpuria, implicated in over two dozen criminal cases including murder and extortion across Haryana, had been evading law enforcement since he jumped parole in 2020. His arrest marks a major victory for the STF, which has been relentlessly pursuing him for years.
A Fugitive’s Journey
Khairmpuria, who fled India in early 2023 using a fraudulently acquired passport, continued his criminal activities from abroad. Deputy Inspector General of Police and STF (Haryana) chief Simardeep Singh revealed that Khairmpuria had expanded his operations in Haryana and neighboring states of Delhi and Rajasthan while on the run. In 2021, he committed another murder in Fatehabad and was declared a proclaimed offender in 2023.
Extensive Criminal Network
Khairmpuria’s criminal record dates back to 2014, with charges ranging from dacoity and robbery to murder and illegal possession of firearms. He was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2018 for a murder in Hanumangarh. Despite his incarceration, Khairmpuria continued to wield influence over a crime syndicate responsible for several high-profile crimes, including targeted killings and extortion.
“His affiliations extended to notorious criminal groups such as the Himanshu Bhau and Neeraj Faridpuria gangs,” said DIG Singh. Notable incidents linked to his gang include the murder of a Sarpanch in Sonipat, a firing incident at a famous sweet shop in Gohana, a murder at a Murthal eatery, and a shootout at a Burger King outlet in Rajouri Garden, Delhi.
Coordinated Efforts and Arrest
The STF’s investigation into Khairmpuria’s activities was extensive. “We coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs and obtained Interpol references and notices against Khairmpuria. His fraudulently obtained passport was revoked, and legal documents establishing his identity and criminal record were shared with relevant law enforcement agencies,” explained DIG Singh. This collaborative effort ultimately led to Khairmpuria’s deportation and subsequent apprehension by STF teams.
Recent Criminal Activities
Khairmpuria’s influence extended to recent violent incidents in Haryana. On June 24, 2024, three masked assailants opened fire outside a Mahindra car dealership in Hisar, an attack masterminded by Khairmpuria. He claimed responsibility for the attack through his Instagram account, demonstrating his continued operational control.
On June 23, bike-borne assailants fired at a car owned by an immigration center owner in Karnal, demanding ₹1 crore. Earlier, on June 5, assailants had fired shots outside another immigration center in Karnal, also seeking ₹1 crore ransom. Two accused were arrested in this case, linking the attacks back to Khairmpuria’s gang.
Targeting Business Community
Khairmpuria’s gang primarily targeted businessmen, traders, industrialists, and builders in Haryana. They would fire shots outside business establishments and then demand extortion money through WhatsApp messages, calls, and even throwing chits mentioning protection money.
Conclusion
The arrest of Rakesh Khairmpuria is a significant achievement for Haryana Police and a step forward in curbing organized crime in the region. The STF’s efforts have not only apprehended a dangerous criminal but also dismantled a network that has instilled fear in the business community. The authorities are committed to pursuing further legal actions against Khairmpuria and ensuring justice for his numerous victims.
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