In a significant operation in the national capital, Delhi Police on Monday morning apprehended two alleged hitmen associated with the notorious Rashid Cablewala gang following a fierce exchange of fire in the Usmanpur area of Northeast Delhi. The intense shootout saw approximately 28 rounds fired from both sides, resulting in bullet injuries to both accused individuals. The incident underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle organized crime networks operating within the city.
The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence received by the Special Staff team of the Northeast Delhi Police regarding the movement of the two suspects. Authorities had information that the individuals, identified as Mohammad Kaif and Mohammad Jaseem, both 23 years old and residents of Northeast Delhi’s Welcome area, were expected to reach their residence in Usmanpur via a forested route. A trap was meticulously laid by the police team to intercept them.
Upon spotting the suspects, police personnel signaled them to surrender. However, instead of complying, Kaif and Jaseem allegedly produced firearms and opened fire on the police party. In a swift and professional response, the police team retaliated, leading to a sustained exchange of bullets. During the encounter, both suspects sustained bullet injuries to their legs and were subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Reports indicate that the bullets fired by the accused also struck the bulletproof jackets of two police officers, who, fortunately, escaped unhurt.
The arrested individuals are believed to be key operatives within the Rashid Cablewala gang, which has been implicated in various criminal activities, including extortion and targeted violence. This specific encounter is reportedly linked to a recent incident where a businessman in the Bhajanpura area was subjected to multiple gunshots following an extortion demand. While the businessman had not initially informed the police about the threats, a subsequent investigation into the firing incident helped identify Kaif and Jaseem as the prime suspects. Technical surveillance and on-ground intelligence gathering played a crucial role in tracking their movements to Usmanpur.
The Rashid Cablewala gang has been a subject of intense scrutiny by law enforcement agencies. Gang leader Rashid Cablewala is reportedly operating from Dubai, having fled India in 2022. His associate, Hashim Baba, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail. In May 2026, Delhi Police’s Crime Branch had arrested six alleged sharpshooters and associates linked to the Rashid Cablewala-Hashim Baba gang, seizing a substantial cache of illegal firearms. These operations highlight the pervasive nature of organized crime in the Trans-Yamuna region and the coordinated efforts required to combat it.
Preliminary investigations suggest a potential connection between the Rashid Cablewala gang and the larger Lawrence Bishnoi gang, though law enforcement is continuing to examine these links. The apprehension of Kaif and Jaseem is considered a significant development in disrupting the gang’s operations and preventing further criminal activities. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to maintaining law and order and will continue to conduct operations to apprehend individuals involved in organized crime and ensure the safety of citizens.
The Chenab Times News Desk