Crime gang suspect shot dead by attackers dressed as lawyers in Indian courtroom

A policeman stands guard outside a courtroom where a crime suspect was fatally shot in New Delhi, India, Friday, Sept. 24, 2021. Two assailants in lawyers’ black coats opened fire in a courtroom in the Indian capital on Friday, killing a notorious crime suspect before being fatally shot by police officers, authorities said. The shooting took place as Jitendra Gogi, who was facing murder and extortion charges, entered the courtroom. (AP Photo)

A notorious crime suspect has been shot dead after two assailants in lawyers’ outfits opened fire in a courtroom in the Indian capital, authorities said.

The shooting took place as Jitendra Gogi entered the courtroom in New Delhi to face murder and extortion charges.

New Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana said officers escorting Gogi acted swiftly and killed the assailants, who were believed to be from a rival gang.

It was not clear how they managed to bring in weapons.

Who was Delhi's most wanted gangster Jitender Gogi https://t.co/vRYzGM9P7T

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With most proceedings held virtually because of coronavirus restrictions, very few people were in the courtroom at the time of the shooting, said lawyer Satyanarayan Sharma, who was at the court for a different case.

He criticised a security lapse and demanded a thorough investigation.

The assailants were waiting for Gogi to arrive, he said.

Indian media reports said Gogi, 30, was allegedly involved in a series of murders, extortion, violent robbery and carjacking cases.