Patna, July 8 — One of the key suspects in the murder of Patna-based businessman Gopal Khemka was killed in a police encounter in the city’s Malsalami area early Tuesday morning, police said.
The deceased, identified as Vikas alias Raja, was reportedly a close associate of the main shooter and was involved in the illegal arms trade. “He was with Umesh during the attack,” said a senior police official, referring to Umesh Rai, the alleged shooter who was arrested earlier this week.
Police sources said the encounter took place during an early morning operation to apprehend Vikas. “He opened fire on our team and was neutralized in retaliatory action,” an officer familiar with the case told reporters on condition of anonymity.
Khemka, a prominent businessman and a BJP affiliate, was gunned down outside his home in the Gandhi Maidan area around 11:40 pm Friday. He was returning home when two men on a motorcycle opened fire at close range. The killing has revived painful memories from seven years ago when his son was similarly shot dead in Hajipur.
Officials said that Umesh Rai, the man accused of pulling the trigger, has been taken into custody, and another suspect, believed to have arranged the hit, is also being held. “Two people are in our custody — the shooter and the one who hired him. The investigation is moving swiftly,” said the officer.
In response to public outrage and the high-profile nature of the case, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar convened a high-level meeting Saturday to review the state’s law and order situation. He reportedly directed officials to expedite the investigation and ensure justice.
