LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday killed two alleged shooters involved in the murder of Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Baliyan in an encounter in Shamli, while efforts were intensified to arrest two other accused who remain absconding. The deceased were identified as Sumit and Mohit, both residents of Sonipat in Haryana.
A reward of Rs 50,000 had been announced for information leading to the arrest of each of them. Police said the duo were associated with the Gogi gang and were among four shooters who allegedly carried out Baliyan’s murder outside a gym five days ago.
Shamli SP Narendra Pratap Singh said the accused were intercepted in the Industrial police station area while allegedly attempting to flee towards Sonipat on a motorcycle. Acting on a tip-off, police teams surrounded them during a vehicle-checking operation on Monday.
“When police signalled them to stop, they opened fire and damaged the windscreen of a police vehicle. Additional teams were rushed to the spot and the suspects were surrounded,” the SP said.
A fierce exchange of fire followed, with nearly 20 rounds allegedly fired from both sides. Sumit and Mohit sustained serious gunshot injuries and were taken to a hospital, where doctors declared them dead.
Police recovered weapons and other items from the encounter site and launched a forensic examination. The other two alleged shooters, identified as Satyam and Aryan, remain at large, with multiple police teams deployed to trace them. The development was welcomed by Ankit’s family, though they said justice remained incomplete.
“We have received only half justice so far. The other two accused must also be arrested. Only then will we feel satisfied,” Ankit’s father said.
Police said an extensive manhunt had been launched following the murder, with SWAT, surveillance and local police teams conducting round-the-clock operations.
Ankit Baliyan, 32, was shot dead outside a gym in Shamli. According to investigators, the attackers fired 18 rounds, with five bullets striking the singer in the head and abdomen. The killing triggered protests, with residents blocking roads and demanding swift arrests.
The case gained further attention after a Haryana-based gang calling itself the Gogi Group claimed responsibility on social media. Police are also examining posts allegedly linked to gang associates and others who claimed involvement in the conspiracy. With two of the four alleged shooters dead, investigators are now focused on arresting Satyam and Aryan.
