In a daring display of courage, the owner and employees of a jewelry shop in Rohit Nagar thwarted an armed robbery attempt on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred around 1 pm when a masked man, later identified as Vishnu, a resident of Hitech City, Bawadia, entered the shop under the pretense of purchasing gold chains.

According to shop owner Anil Jain, suspicion arose when the man refused to remove his face covering. Moments later, the accused brandished a pistol, fired two shots into the air to intimidate, and struck Jain on the nose with the gun's butt. Despite being injured, Jain and his employee bravely confronted the robber, preventing his escape.

The assailant had managed to grab cash and jewelry meant for repair from the counter. However, the swift action of Jain, his employee, and nearby residents led to his capture. Jain recounted how the robber initially threatened to kill him if he resisted.

As he moved toward the locker room, the assailant pointed the gun at the employee. When the robber’s weapon misfired twice, Jain tackled him with the assistance of his employee. Hearing the commotion, neighbors rushed to help and restrained the accused until the police arrived.

Despite multiple calls to the police helpline (100), officers did not reach the scene promptly. A local resident had to go to the police station personally to alert authorities.

SHO Lokendra Singh Thakur confirmed the arrest of the accused and stated that Anil Jain was sent for medical examination due to injuries sustained during the struggle.

Anand Soni, President of the New Bhopal Sarafa Association, commended Jain’s bravery but criticized the delayed police response. He urged law enforcement to strengthen security measures for traders, emphasizing the rising threat of armed robberies.

Bloodstains inside the shop testified to the violent scuffle, but the quick intervention by Jain and his employee ensured that the robbery was foiled, and the accused was taken into custody.