Karnal, March 4:- Cracking down on crime in Haryana, the Special Task Force (STF) carried out a major operation in Karnal. Police arrested two notorious shooters in an injured state in an encounter near Kurali village. The two criminals opened fire on the police team, and were shot in the legs in retaliatory fire.

**Acting on a tip-off
According to information, the Karnal STF team received information that two suspected shooters were roaming around Kurali Road, intending to commit a crime. Upon receiving the information, the team cordoned off the area and began intensive checking. Upon identifying the suspects, the police signaled them to stop.

**Firing at the police
Seeing the police approaching, the two criminals attempted to escape and suddenly opened fire. The sound of gunfire created panic in the area. The police team, acting vigilantly, took charge and returned fire in self-defense.

**Injured in retaliatory fire
In the STF's retaliatory fire, both criminals were shot in the legs, causing them to collapse on the spot. Police subsequently overpowered them. No police personnel were injured during the encounter. According to officials, if timely action had not been taken, a major incident could have occurred.

**Connection to the Sonipat incident
Preliminary investigation has revealed that both are professional shooters and were involved in the firing incident at the 'Pahal Nutrition' showroom in Sonipat on February 27. After the incident, they also released a video on social media to spread terror.

**Weapons recovered, investigation ongoing
Police recovered two pistols from the scene. Forensic examination of the recovered items is underway. Both accused have been admitted to the Trauma Center in Karnal for treatment, where their condition is reported to be stable.
According to police records, both have several criminal cases registered against them. The STF is now searching for their other criminal network and associates.