One of the accused in the murder case of Bihar-based businessman Gopal Khemka was gunned down during a police encounter in Patna’s Malsalami area late last night. The man, identified as Vikas, had allegedly accompanied the main shooter, Umesh, during the killing.
Vikas Allegedly Aided Shooter Umesh in Crime
Police sources stated that Vikas was present with Umesh when Khemka was shot dead right outside his Patna home. Umesh, believed to be the main shooter, had already been arrested earlier in connection with the crime.
Khemka Was Shot Outside His Home in Patna
Mr. Khemka, a well-known businessman and owner of Magadh Hospital and several petrol pumps, was murdered on Friday night. The assailant approached his car and opened fire while he was parked just outside his house. After firing the shots, the attacker fled the scene.
This isn’t the first tragedy to strike the Khemka family — his son was murdered seven years ago in Hajipur, reportedly over a land dispute.
Two Held in High-Profile Contract Killing Case of Khemka
So far, two suspects have been taken into custody. Apart from Umesh, police have detained a second person suspected of hiring the shooter.
“Both persons have been held in Patna by a joint team of the Special Task Force and the Patna Police. The investigation is in progress. We will be able to divulge more details in due course,” a senior police officer said last night.
Opposition Attacks Nitish Govt Over Law and Order
The murder has triggered a political uproar, placing the Nitish Kumar-led JDU-BJP government under scrutiny. With Assembly polls approaching, the Opposition parties — RJD and Congress — have launched sharp attacks over Bihar’s worsening law and order situation.
CM Orders Speedy Probe, Warns Against Negligence
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has taken swift cognisance of the case. He met with senior officials following the killing and urged them to expedite the investigation.
He emphasised that “the rule of law is the government’s top priority” and cautioned that “strict action” would be taken if any negligence by the police is found.
