Lucknow | March 30, 2025 – In a major crackdown against organized crime, Anuj Kannaujia, a most-wanted shooter and ₹2.5 lakh bounty criminal linked to the Mukhtar Ansari gang, was gunned down in an encounter with the UP STF in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, on Sunday. The operation ended a five-year-long manhunt for the fugitive, who was involved in 24 heinous crimes, including multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, and robbery across Mau, Azamgarh, and Ghazipur.
UP STF Tracks, Corners Anuj in Jamshedpur
According to ADG (Law & Order) Amitabh Yash, the Special Task Force (STF) Gorakhpur Unit traced Anuj’s location in Jamshedpur and launched a joint operation with the Jharkhand Police. During the gunfire exchange, Anuj Kannaujia was shot dead. Deputy SP D.K. Shahi, an STF officer, sustained a gunshot wound to the hand and is currently undergoing treatment.
Authorities recovered firearms and objectionable materials from the encounter site, suggesting Anuj was actively involved in gang operations even while on the run.
Notorious Shooter Linked to Mukhtar Ansari Syndicate
Police confirmed Anuj Kannaujia’s deep association with the Mukhtar Ansari gang, where he played a key role in recruiting shooters and plotting contract killings. His name had consistently surfaced in violent gang activities and targeted assassinations.
Anuj hailed from Jamshedpur and had been evading arrest since 2019. His wife, Reena Rai, was earlier arrested by UP STF and Jharkhand Police in March 2023 for her alleged involvement in managing Anuj’s illegal activities during his absconding period. Notably, during that raid, Anuj had narrowly escaped police custody, triggering an intensified pursuit.
Authorities Continue Crackdown on Gang Nexus
The successful neutralization of Anuj Kannaujia marks a significant blow to the Mukhtar Ansari network, which has been under relentless pressure from law enforcement. UP STF’s collaboration with inter-state police units is being credited for tracing fugitives beyond state borders.
Police officials are continuing to monitor associates and operatives linked to the Ansari syndicate to dismantle its financial and operational roots.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.