In a span of just two days, the city of Ferozepur has gone from shock to action as police made major strides in the murder investigation of Ashu Monga — a 28-year-old local businessman gunned down in broad daylight near Makkhu Gate. The audacious nature of the crime, committed in a crowded marketplace and caught on video, sent a wave of fear through the city and triggered a rapid police response that has already led to a high-stakes encounter, leaving three of the suspected shooters injured.
The murder and its aftermath
It was an ordinary Thursday afternoon when Ashu Monga stepped into a tattoo parlour in the busy Makkhu Gate area. He had no idea that danger was lurking just outside. Moments later, masked men stormed in and opened fire, shooting him multiple times before fleeing. The incident, captured by horrified bystanders and circulated widely on social media, stunned the entire city and raised fresh concerns about security in public places.
Eyewitnesses recalled the scene with horror — one of the attackers wielded pistols in both hands, firing not just at Ashu, but in the air, creating panic all around. The attack site, just a few hundred metres from a women’s college, was teeming with people at the time. The brazenness of the assault only deepened the fear and anger among residents.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the attack, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Bhupinder Singh ruled out a gang war angle and revealed that the shooting stemmed from a personal altercation. “All individuals involved were known to each other. Ashu had a falling out with some friends a few days ago. In a fit of rage, they opened fire,” he stated. Based on a statement given by Ashu’s wife, police filed an FIR naming known gangster Ashish Chopra, seven others by name, and several unidentified suspects.
Swift police action and encounter
The police wasted no time in launching a city-wide operation. Multiple teams worked round the clock, scanning CCTV footage and collecting statements. Their efforts paid off quickly — within 24 hours, they arrested two suspects, Angrez Singh and Joginder Singh, alias Lalu. Meanwhile, the search for the remaining accused intensified.
The breakthrough came when the Counter Intelligence team joined forces with local police and traced three suspects to the Rat Rata Khera drain area, near Ferozepur-Moga Road. When police moved in to intercept them, the suspects opened fire. The police responded immediately, injuring all three in the exchange. They were swiftly taken to the hospital. Officers also recovered four pistols, a motorcycle, and a scooter believed to have been used in the crime.
Investigation progress and public reassurance
The case has been registered under serious charges, including murder, rioting, unlawful assembly, criminal conspiracy, and multiple sections of the Arms Act. SSP Bhupinder Singh assured citizens that the investigation is progressing with full force. “We request everyone to stay calm. We will take strict action against every person involved. Justice will be served,” he said, adding that ensuring public safety remains the department’s top priority.
The successful encounter marks a significant step in resolving a case that has shaken the city’s sense of security. With multiple arrests made and the manhunt ongoing, authorities remain firm in their resolve to bring everyone responsible to justice. The brutal killing of Ashu Monga has not only devastated his family but also rekindled demands for stronger measures against organized crime and renewed attention to public safety across Ferozepur.