The notorious 'Pilla Gang' in Haridwar spread terror by firing shots in crowded areas. This gang, comprising over 20 members aged 16-25, has been active since 2023 and involved in several criminal incidents.
Haridwar: In the Kankhal area of Haridwar, the holy city of Uttarakhand, the Pilla Gang has once again challenged the law. On Monday afternoon, bike-borne miscreants fired shots in broad daylight in the area, causing panic among citizens and traders. The crackle of bullets created a stampede, and the police immediately launched an investigation, taking the seriousness of the matter into account.
Daylight Firing in Kankhal
According to sources, three bike-borne miscreants from the Pilla Gang first fired shots in front of a mobile shop near the Jagjitpur bridge. Subsequently, they also fired shots to spread terror in Football Ground Basti, Valmiki Basti, and Raja Garden. This incident heightened the fear and apprehension among common citizens and traders. People retreated to their homes, and the streets became deserted.
Trader Sandeep Rathore stated that upon hearing the sudden sound of gunshots, he and others ran for their lives. He added that due to such criminals, living in the area is no longer safe.
Incident Captured on CCTV
Following the incident, the police took swift action and examined CCTV cameras in the area. Footage was retrieved from two locations, clearly showing the accused firing shots. The police stated that the Pilla Gang is behind this incident and they took this step to spread terror in the area. Currently, the police are conducting continuous raids and have claimed the swift arrest of the accused.
A police official said that the gang members have previously been involved in extortion, threats, and deadly attacks. Their audacity has now increased, and they are not only continuously committing crimes but also creating an atmosphere of fear in the area.
History of the Pilla Gang
The Pilla Gang first came into the spotlight in July 2023 when aerial firing occurred in the Khokha Market of BHEL Sector. Since then, this gang has been consistently active in Kankhal, Jwalapur, and surrounding areas.
This gang has over 20 members, with their ages reportedly ranging between 16 and 25 years. Its members have been apprehended multiple times for extortion, threats, and deadly attacks. In recent cases, a youth was shot near the Avadhoot Mandal Ashram in October 2023, a deadly attack was carried out on car occupants at Aryannagar Chowk in 2024, and on July 22, a youth was brutally beaten at a birthday party, in which five members were identified by name.
Strict Action by Police
The police have stated that strict action will be taken against the Pilla Gang. The accused are being identified with the help of all raids and CCTV footage. Officials have also appealed to citizens to follow safety regulations.
Security experts believe that to curb the activities of such gangs, there is a need for increased patrolling and more surveillance cameras in the area. Local residents want the police to take strict measures to end the atmosphere of fear and bring the Pilla Gang under control.
