A gangster wanted in connection with the murder of Tamil Nadu Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief K Armstrong was killed in a police encounter in Chennai on Sunday. This incident marks the second police encounter involving suspects in Armstrong’s killing within just a week, highlighting ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on organized crime in the region.
The deceased, identified as Seizing Raja, was arrested in Kadappa, Andhra Pradesh, and subsequently transported to Chennai by police for further investigation. According to police sources, Raja was taken to the Neelankarai area, where he was supposed to reveal the locations of hidden weapons. However, during the course of this operation, he allegedly drew a gun and fired at the police. In response, law enforcement officials shot him twice, striking him in the stomach and chest.
Raja was rushed to a private hospital but was declared dead shortly after arrival. His body has been transferred to another facility for a post-mortem examination. Police records indicate that Seizing Raja had a troubling history, with 33 pending criminal cases against him, including five instances where he was charged under the Goondas Act.
In a statement following her husband’s death, Raja’s wife claimed that he had not been involved in any criminal activities for the past two years. She expressed disbelief at the allegations linking him to Armstrong’s murder, stating, “He was arrested when he went out to buy tiffin. My child is only 90 days old, and we have been living alone. I heard there would be a fake encounter. I am really scared. He has nothing to do with the murder.” She further added, “I was having my baby shower on the day of the murder. I have all the evidence. Fake news is spreading that he was involved in the murder.”
The investigation into Armstrong’s murder has led to significant police activity in recent weeks. Earlier, another suspect, identified as Appu, was apprehended in Delhi for allegedly supplying country bombs related to the case. Following this, Seizing Raja was linked to the crime and arrested on Sunday.
The violent death of K Armstrong, 52, occurred on July 5 when he was attacked outside his home in Chennai. CCTV footage from the scene revealed that four assailants, disguised as food delivery agents, carried out the brazen attack. Following the murder, police arrested eight individuals; however, ongoing investigations led to the identification and arrest of 27 suspects in total. Among these, Thiruvengadam, a known gangster, was also killed in a police encounter on July 13.
The series of encounters and arrests indicates a concerted effort by law enforcement agencies in Tamil Nadu to address gang-related violence and restore order in the wake of Armstrong’s tragic death. As investigations continue, the police remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice for the slain BSP leader and in their efforts to dismantle the criminal networks operating in the region.
