Cops: It’s handiwork of contract killers

Tribune News Service
Mohali, June 14

The attack on Punjabi singer Baltaj Khan could be handiwork of some contract killers, believed the local police.

Baltaj Khan, who had sustained three bullet injuries in an attack by two unidentified motorcycle-borne miscreants late last night, is said to be in a critical condition at a private hospital in Mohali.

The police have reportedly rounded up three-four persons for investigations.

The police said prima facie it appears that the attackers were professional killers.

“They came on a motorcycle with covered faces and used a sophisticated firearm to commit the crime. Their motive was to kill the victim and they apparently aimed his chest to shoot. Two bullets hit the victim’s neck, while one bullet pierced his abdomen,” said the police.

According to the police, Baltaj Khan (26) was married to Kurali resident Sandeep Kaur five days ago. “It is an inter-caste marriage. We are working on certain angles, including this one also,” said the police, adding that the victim’s wife was 14 years older to him. Police sources said she was also having a 14-year-old son.

Mohali Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harcharan Singh Bhullar said Baltaj was unfit to record his statement. “We have recorded the statement of Sandeep Kaur, who raised doubts on certain persons, who are being quizzed,” said Bhullar.

The SSP said neither the victim’s enmity with somebody has come to fore nor it seemed to be a case of extortion.

“Things will get cleared after recording the victim’s statement,” said SSP Bhullar.

Notably, Baltaj was attacked when he, along with his wife, was buying fruits late last night on the Mohali-Kharar highway opposite Palki banquet hall in Balongi.

Married 5 days ago

According to the police, Baltaj Khan (26) was married to Kurali resident Sandeep Kaur five days ago. “It is an inter-caste marriage. We are working on certain angles, including this one also,” said the police, adding that the victim’s wife was 14 years older to him. Police sources said she was also having a 14-year-old son.