Hapur, Uttar Pradesh | May 29, 2025 — In a significant breakthrough against organized crime, Naveen Kumar, a notorious sharpshooter and close aide of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, was killed in an encounter late last night in the Thana Kotwali area of Hapur, UP.

The encounter was carried out by a joint team of the Noida unit of UP Special Task Force (STF) and the Delhi Police Special Cell, both of which had been tracking the fugitive for weeks. Naveen was wanted under multiple charges, including murder, robbery, kidnapping, and the stringent MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act).

20 Criminal Cases, 2 Convictions & a Violent End

According to UP STF officials, Naveen Kumar had over 20 criminal cases lodged against him across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, including two prior convictions handed down by Delhi courts. He had been on the run following his alleged involvement in a murder case registered in Thana Farsh Bazar, Delhi, and was known for evading arrest through a well-oiled network of gang operatives.

Officials say Naveen was gravely injured during the shootout and was immediately rushed to a local hospital, where doctors later declared him dead.

A Key Operative in Bishnoi’s Crime Syndicate

Sources within the Delhi Police confirm that Naveen Kumar was a key sharpshooter for the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a syndicate that has drawn nationwide attention due to its links to contract killings, extortion rackets, and celebrity-targeted threats.

“The operation was part of a larger crackdown on interstate gangs operating under the radar,” a senior STF official told The Vocal News on condition of anonymity. “This was a high-value target, and neutralizing him is a significant blow to the Bishnoi network.”

How the Encounter Unfolded

Late on Wednesday night, a joint police team zeroed in on Naveen in Hapur. He reportedly opened fire first, prompting the STF and Delhi Police to retaliate. The exchange lasted several minutes, during which Naveen sustained critical bullet injuries.

Security forces later confirmed that the weapon found on him matched ballistics reports from at least two recent crimes in NCR.

Public Safety vs Gang Warfare: A Growing Challenge

This incident highlights the growing reach of organized crime across North India, especially involving criminal gangs like Lawrence Bishnoi’s, whose operations often stretch from Delhi to Punjab and beyond. Authorities are now investigating whether Naveen was planning another hit or coordinating gang activity in western UP.

Legal experts say that while MCOCA cases are rare in northern states, their use underscores the seriousness with which police treat such high-level operatives.

With Naveen Kumar eliminated, law enforcement agencies are expected to intensify the crackdown on remaining Bishnoi associates. Meanwhile, cyber and intelligence units are scanning his digital footprint to uncover any ongoing extortion threats or upcoming criminal plans.

As of now, no officers were injured during the exchange, and the STF has confirmed the operation was conducted in accordance with standard operating procedure.