Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) [India], May 8 (HBTV): The main accused in the alleged Ujjain sexual assault case, Farman Mansoori, was shot and injured by police after he attempted to escape from custody, an official said on Wednesday.

The incident occurred in Ujjain district on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday. According to police, Mansoori was being taken to the district hospital after claiming to have chest pain. On the way, he asked the police to stop the vehicle, citing nausea. After stepping out, he allegedly snatched a rifle from a police personnel, fired two rounds, and tried to flee. In retaliation, the police shot him in the leg. He is currently undergoing treatment at the district hospital.

Ujjain Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma said: ‘In the incident that occurred in a village in Ujjain, we have registered four separate FIRs and arrested seven accused. The main accused, Farman Mansoori, who is involved in three crimes, pretended to have chest pain. While being taken to the district hospital, he stepped out of the vehicle citing vomiting, snatched the rifle from a police personnel, and tried to escape, firing two rounds.’

‘In retaliation, the police fired and a bullet hit the leg of the accused. He is undergoing treatment at the district hospital. A forensic team is collecting evidence, and a separate case of attempt to murder is being registered against Farman,’ the officer added.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case. Police have also initiated a cyber investigation to profile Mansoori's online activity and identify additional victims. If further incidents come to light, new FIRs will be registered accordingly.

The police have also announced a reward of INR 10,000 for individuals who inform them about such crimes, assuring that the informants’ identities will remain confidential.

Providing insight into Mansoori’s alleged modus operandi, the SP said he worked at the RTO office, where he gained access to mobile numbers while preparing driving licences. He would also visit local shops near the village and hand out his phone number and social media details to women. After establishing contact, he allegedly blackmailed several victims into sexual acts.

So far, four women have come forward, and based on their statements, four FIRs have been registered. A total of seven accused have been arrested in connection with the case. (ANI)