Shamli, Uttar Pradesh: Two suspected sharpshooters wanted in the murder of Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balyan were killed in an encounter with Uttar Pradesh Police in Shamli, officials said on Monday.
The two suspects have been identified as Sumit and Mohit. Police said both were allegedly involved in the August 26 killing of Balyan, who was shot dead outside a gym in Shamli.
Two Suspects Killed in Encounter
According to police, the encounter took place in an industrial area under the jurisdiction of the Sadar Kotwali police station in Shamli.
The two men were allegedly carrying a reward of ₹50,000 each. Reports said Mohit was facing several criminal cases, while Sumit was also wanted in a criminal case.
The encounter is part of an intensive investigation launched after Balyan was shot dead in broad daylight.
How Ankit Balyan Was Killed
Balyan was leaving a gym in the Kotwali area of Shamli at around 6:45–6:55 pm on August 26 when four armed assailants allegedly arrived on two motorcycles and opened fire.
The singer suffered multiple gunshot injuries and was rushed to a nearby community health centre, where doctors declared him dead. Police subsequently began examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify the attackers.
A video of the shooting later circulated on social media and reportedly showed the attackers approaching Balyan as he walked towards his vehicle.
Gogi Gang Claim Under Investigation
Following the murder, a person claiming to be associated with the Gogi gang allegedly took responsibility for the killing through a social media post.
The post reportedly linked the murder to Balyan’s music and alleged rivalry. However, police have been investigating the authenticity of the claim and whether the gang was actually behind the attack.
The two men killed in the encounter are also believed by investigators to have links to the gang, though the investigation is continuing.
Two More Suspects Still At Large
Police said the original attack involved four assailants. With two suspected shooters now dead following the encounter, two other suspects remain absconding.
Multiple police teams have been working to trace the remaining accused and reconstruct their movements before and after the murder. CCTV footage from Shamli and neighbouring areas has reportedly been examined as part of the investigation.
Who Was Ankit Balyan?
Ankit Balyan was a popular Haryanvi singer, YouTuber and music creator from Shamli. Before entering the music industry, he had reportedly played state-level kabaddi.
After an injury ended his sporting career, Balyan turned towards music and began releasing Haryanvi songs. He had worked on more than 50 songs as a singer, lyricist and composer and had built a substantial following on social media platforms.
His death triggered protests in Shamli, with family members and supporters demanding swift action against those responsible for the killing.
Investigation Continues
The encounter marks a significant development in the Ankit Balyan murder investigation. Police are now focusing on locating the remaining two suspects and establishing the complete motive and sequence of events behind the killing.
Authorities are also examining the alleged Gogi gang connection and other evidence collected during the investigation.
The case remains under investigation, and further details are expected as police continue their search for the remaining accused.
