By :- Prakarsh Kastwar
In a dramatic turn of events in the Gopal Khemka murder case, Bihar Police gunned down the second accused in an encounter late Monday evening. The incident occurred during a police raid at the suspect’s hideout in Patna. According to officials, the accused, identified as Vikas, opened fire on the police team, prompting retaliatory action in which he was shot dead.
The incident follows the arrest of the prime accused and shooter, Umesh Kumar alias Vijay Sahni, who was taken into custody from the Mal Salami area of Patna City on Monday. Police stated that crucial information obtained during Vijay’s interrogation led them to Vikas’ location.
Police Encounter Details
As per senior police officials, a special team was dispatched to apprehend Vikas for further interrogation in the murder investigation. However, upon spotting the police team, Vikas reportedly fired at the officers, leading to an exchange of gunfire. He sustained gunshot injuries and was declared dead on the spot.
The police also recovered weapons, a two-wheeler used during the crime, and approximately ₹3 lakh, which is believed to have been paid as part of the contract killing.
Murder Background
Gopal Khemka, a prominent industrialist from Patna, was shot dead on the night of July 4 outside his residence near Ramgulam Chowk, Gandhi Maidan, as he was returning home from the Bankipur Club. The daylight assassination sparked massive public outrage and political backlash against the Bihar government.
Contract Killing Angle
During interrogation, shooter Vijay revealed that the murder was allegedly orchestrated by Ashok Saw, a resident of Nalanda. Saw is accused of providing arms and money to carry out the killing. He is currently absconding, and multiple police teams have been deployed to trace and arrest him.
Sources suggest that Vikas was not only present with Vijay during the murder but also played a key role in arranging weapons. His death is being seen as a significant breakthrough in the case.
Political and Public Reaction
The murder had triggered sharp criticism of the law-and-order situation in Bihar, with opposition parties slamming the Nitish Kumar-led government. The killing of a high-profile businessman in a high-security zone highlighted serious lapses in policing.
Ongoing Investigation
The Bihar Police have assured that the investigation is being pursued vigorously and that all individuals involved in planning and executing the murder will be brought to justice. Efforts are currently underway to locate and apprehend Ashok Saw, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the contract killing.