Assailants gun down 25-year-old before escaping on motorbikes

By Sagaya Fernando | March 15, 2025

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India: A 25-year-old man was fatally shot in Aligarh’s Teli Pada area in the wee hours of March 14, just before the pre-dawn Ramzan meal (sehri). The attackers, riding motorcycles and wearing masks, fired multiple rounds at the victim, identified as Haris alias Katta, killing him on the spot.

The incident, which took place around 3:30 am, was captured on a nearby CCTV camera, showing four bike-borne assailants opening fire before fleeing the scene. Another individual was seen with Haris moments before the attack but managed to escape unharmed.

According to eyewitnesses and family members, Haris was returning home after playing cricket with friends when he was ambushed near his residence in Galli No. 9.

Haris is seen talking to his friend when the assailants arrive on two motorbikes. One of the attackers whips out a gun and starts shooting Haris who tries to run, but stumbles and falls. The gunman continues to shoot at Haris. The assailants fired at least eight to nine rounds, seven of which struck Haris in the stomach and back, leading to his immediate death.

The sound of gunfire alarmed residents, some of whom attempted to chase the attackers, only for the assailants to fire warning shots at the crowd.

Police suspect the attack was linked to a gang rivalry or an ongoing personal dispute.

“We are exploring all possible angles, including a gang war,” said ASP Mayank Pathak, who is leading the investigation. “Specialized teams have been formed to identify and track down the accused.”

Forensic experts have gathered evidence from the crime scene, and authorities are analyzing CCTV footage to trace the escape route of the attackers. Security in the area has been heightened to prevent any further violence.

The body of the deceased has been sent for a postmortem examination, and a formal case has been registered. Law enforcement officials have assured the public that swift action will be taken to bring those responsible to justice.

The brutal killing has raised serious concerns about law and order in Aligarh, with local residents calling for enhanced security and immediate arrests. Investigators continue to gather information and question witnesses to piece together the full sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting.