Pune: Two two-wheeler borne assailants shot at a police official attached to Yerwada central jail in front of the prison Friday morning, however the official escaped unhurt by quick reflexes on his part. Mohan Patil, police sub-inspector (35), also attacked the assailants with his umbrella after which they fled. The assailants, whose faces were covered with handkerchiefs, were captured by a CCTV unit installed at the spot, which is now being examined by the police. Mr Patil has lodged a FIR with Yerwada police station.

Raghkumar Waghchoure, police inspector, Yerwada police station, said, “As per the FIR, Mr Patil was walking towards the jail at 6.20 am from his house. Two unknown persons came on a scooty from the opposite side when Mr Patil was 200 metres away from the jail entrance. The pillion rider, from a locally-made pistol, fired at Mr Patil from close range. He moved quickly so as to dodge the bullet and hence, suffered no injury.”

“Mr Patil then tried to attack the assailants with the umbrella he was carrying. The assailants were confused and ran away.  We will be able to find them quickly using the CCTV footages. We have invoked section 307 of the Indian Penal Code for attempt to murder and section 34 for crime committed with common intention,” said Mr Waghchoure.

Bhushan Upadhyay, additional director general of police, in-charge of prison, said, “Following the attack, we have directed all employees to be alert carry their licensed arms when outside the jail premises. ” An official said, “The relatives of inmates are always in front of the jail and hence its always crowded. Moving traffic in front of the jail makes it even more risky. Hence, we are going to ask the Pune municipal corporation to close the road to traffic.”

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