Operation Bazooka: The True Story behind the Hunt for the Most Dreaded UP Gangster ǀ True crime account of Shriprakash Shukla’s encounter Paperback – 11 September 2023

“Operation Bazooka (Authors - IPS Rajesh Pandey and Dr Rakesh Goswami) is the True Story behind the Hunt for the Most Dreaded UP Gangster" is a gripping true crime narrative that takes readers deep into the heart of organised crime in Uttar Pradesh. Written by the highly experienced IPS officers Rajesh Pandey and Rakesh Goswami, this book provides an in-depth account of the relentless pursuit of Shriprakash Shukla, one of the most notorious gangsters in the state.The narrative unfolds like a thrilling novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as it unravels Shukla's reign of terror and the Special Task Force's (STF) tireless efforts to bring him to justice. What sets this book apart is the fact that author Rajesh Pandey was intimately involved in the operation, offering an insider's perspective that adds depth and authenticity to the story.One of the standout aspects of "Operation Bazooka" is the introduction of the country's first electronic surveillance unit, developed by Rajesh Pandey during the operation. This groundbreaking technology played a pivotal role in the pursuit of Shukla and sheds light on the evolving strategies employed by law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime. Additionally, the book provides readers with the only known photograph of the elusive gangster, a testament to the dedication and resourcefulness of the police force during this operation."Operation Bazooka" is a must-read for anyone with an interest in true crime stories. It not only offers a thrilling account of one of the most significant operations against organised crime in India but also provides invaluable insights into the inner workings of law enforcement agencies. The authors' firsthand experiences and detailed narration make it a captivating read from start to finish. This book stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of unimaginable danger and is a chilling reminder of the lengths to which law enforcement will go to protect society from those who seek to disrupt it.

The thrilled combination of an IPS officer and journalist who are passionate and dedicated towards their work of solving and reporting crime cases have given shape to OPERATION BAZOOKA.So wonderfully written and presented that while reading, you literally shift to the genuine event and begin envisioning it as if it were happening there in front of you. The suspense and intrigue are maintained throughout the novel. The authors honestly mentioned the proposal of forming a special task force by the then-chief minister of state, Late Shri Kalyan Singh ji, and did him justice by dedicating the book to him. I appeciate!This book presents an in-depth description of Shriprakash Shukla's dogged chase, as well as Mr. Rajesh Pandey, a major member in the state's Special Task Force who recounts the dramatic pursuit of the dreaded gangster in the state.One of the most notable parts of "Operation Bazooka" is the launch of the country's first electronic surveillance unit, which was developed during the operation by Mr. Rajesh Pandey (DSP). This ground-breaking technology was critical in Shukla's capture and sheds light on the shifting techniques used by law enforcement authorities to combat organized crime. The book also includes the only known photograph of the elusive mobster, a testament to the police force's persistence and resourcefulness during this operation.Much appreciations to Dr. Rakesh Goswami for his extreme interest in solving crime stories and their coverage. His passion into the crime journalism has actually given it a form of book and a sensational read to the readers."Operation Bazooka" is a must-read for everyone interested in true crime stories. This is a suspenseful police drama that will have you gripped from start to finish.

Operation Bazooka is unbelievably detailed account of how Sriprakash Shukla, an angry young man, rose to become 'terror incarnate'. Early 90's in India is known as the opening of economy to the world, arrival of Shah Rukh Khan on silver screen, and East UP becoming badlands infected with mafia and politicians hobnobbing for a shot at power. In 1993, Shukla emerged on the scene and till 1998 when when he was gunned down by a special task force of UP police, he had earned notoriety which is still unmatched. The book is a powerful yet sad story of a talented young man being wasted to evils of the time.

The media could not be loaded. "Operation Bazooka" The man who took contract to assasinate the then Chief Minister of UP is a riveting summary of that delves deep into the complex world of one of Uttar Pradesh's most notorious gangsters. Written with meticulous research and gripping storytelling, the book paints a vivid picture of Shri Prakash Shukla's rise to power and his ruthless reign in the criminal underworld. It's a chilling account of his criminal exploits, his cunning tactics, and the web of corruption that surrounded him. Through meticulous detailing and vivid storytelling, the book offers readers a glimpse into the dark underbelly of Uttar Pradesh's and Bihar's crime scene during Shukla's era. It's a must-read for those interested in true crime stories and the enigmatic lives of gangsters.

As a few other readers have alluded to in their reviews, it’s an absolutely fascinating story but what brings it down is the writing. It lacks detail in key parts of the story and there are several grammatical and logical errors in the narration. Had there been more thorough proofreading then it would’ve done wonders for this book and done justice to this incredible real-life story.

Excellently written , value for money