New Delhi, Sept 20 : Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil on Saturday condoled the death of Delhi police inspector M. C. Sharma.

In a statement he said, “I am deeply aggrieved to learn about the sad demise of Inspector M. C. Sharma of Delhi Police who laid down his life in the service of the nation during an operation in New Delhi today. He was a brave officer who always set an example in performance of duty. He will always remain an inspiration to police force throughout the country.”

Sharma succumbed last evening to bullet injuries received during an encounter in Jamia Nagar.

He led the team that killed two terrorists, who were suspected to be behind the Delhi blasts, and arrested another in the encounter on Friday.

The 43-year-old and seven-gallantry award winner officer received several bullet injuries during the encounter. He was operated upon at the Holy Family Hospital to remove bullets from his body, but succumbed to his injuries. The officer received bullet injuries on his upper abdomen, upper arm, left shoulder and right hip. (ANI)