Amritsar, April 29 — Gangster-turned-social worker Ravneet Singh, widely known as Sonu Mota, was shot dead near Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) on Tuesday evening.
The shooting occurred in Kathian Wala Bazaar, just behind the Akal Takhat, triggering panic in the densely populated commercial zone.
According to the police, the assailants were led by Abhiraj Singh alias Abhi Pehalwan, a known gangster, who along with his associates had been tracking Sonu’s movements for several days.
As Sonu was walking towards Gurudwara Guru Ka Mahal, the attackers intercepted him, blocked his path using scooters, and opened fire. He was hit by five bullets and collapsed on the spot.
His associate attempted to retaliate and chased the attackers, briefly exchanging fire. However, the shooters turned back and fired again before fleeing the scene.
The gunfire sparked chaos among shopkeepers and bystanders, who rushed to call police and emergency services.
Sonu was declared dead before medical aid could arrive.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishaljit Singh confirmed the murder and named Abhiraj Singh as the main accused.
“We have registered a case under Section 302 of the IPC and are conducting raids at multiple locations to apprehend the accused and his accomplices,” he said, adding that several leads were being pursued and arrests were imminent.
Sonu Mota had a criminal past, with several cases registered against him under the NDPS Act, as well as charges of murder and attempted murder.
He had recently come under the police scanner during an anti-drug crackdown, during which his house in Mustafabad was demolished.
Though he had projected a reformed image in recent years and was involved in local social work, officials believe the killing was linked to an old gang rivalry.
Sources said Sonu had been receiving threats from multiple factions, and the murder may have been a long-planned act of vengeance.
