A high-stakes police operation in Bihar’s Araria district ended with the death of a wanted criminal, Chunmun Jha, on the night of March 21, 2025. The encounter, which unfolded in the Narpatganj area, also left four policemen injured, highlighting the intensity of the confrontation. Jha, a key figure in multiple criminal cases, carried a bounty of Rs 3 lakh on his head.

The operation was spearheaded by the Bihar Police’s Special Task Force (STF) alongside local district police, acting on precise intelligence about Jha’s whereabouts. Known for orchestrating audacious jewellery showroom heists in Purnea and Bhojpur, as well as involvement in murders, kidnappings, and dacoity, Jha had long evaded capture. The STF had been closing in on him for days, culminating in the late-night raid.

According to Additional Director General of Police (STF) Kundan Krishnan, the team cornered Jha at his hideout. When confronted, the criminal opened fire in an attempt to flee, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire. Jha sustained multiple bullet wounds and was rushed to a nearby government hospital, where he succumbed during treatment. One accomplice was detained, though another managed to escape, prompting an extensive manhunt.

The injured officers, despite their wounds, are stable and receiving medical care. Jha’s death is a significant victory for Bihar’s law enforcement, which has been intensifying efforts to dismantle organized crime networks. Authorities are now focused on tracking down his remaining associates to prevent further criminal activities in the region.