A prominent Patna-based businessman, Gopal Khemka, was shot dead late Friday night in the Gandhi Maidan area, raising shockwaves and concern across the city. Khemka, who is the owner of Magadh Hospital, was famous for his political network with the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) was attacked while coming out of his car near the Twin Tower residential complex, near Hotel Panache.
The incident took place around 11:40 pm on July 4, as stated by police officials. Khemka was shot dead at close range by unknown attackers. He was immediately sent to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.
Investigation launched, CCTV footage under scanner
City Superintendent of Police (Central), Diksha, has confirmed that police teams have reached both the hospital and the crime scene after being aware of the incident. “We received information that businessman Gopal Khemka had been shot dead in the south area of Gandhi Maidan. As soon as the information was received, police responded by reaching the hospital and the crime scene, “she stated to The Indian Express.
A forensic team has also been sent, and one bullet and a shell casing from the spot have been recovered from the crime scene. “We are examining CCTV footage. It is suspected that the attackers came on a bike. We are further investigating the matter from all angles to find further details and motive,” Diksha added.
Second tragedy in Khemka’s family
The case has drawn comparisons to a similar incident that took place six years ago, when Gunjan Khemka, Gopal’s son, was also shot dead in Vaishali district under similar conditions. The reason behind the latest killing is still not known, and authorities are probing multiple leads.
Meanwhile, police are also investigating the double murder case that took place on June 10 in the Bikram police station area, in which two youths were found shot dead near the temple, as per an ANI report. An Apache bike and several bullet shells were recovered from the scene, though a link between the two incidents has not been made by the police.
The probe into Khemka’s murder is currently going on, with senior officials assured of a thorough investigation.
Bihar Congress spokesperson Rajesh Rathod has firmly slammed the state government over the incident, stating it had once again emphasised the poor state of law and order.
“Under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership, the government has completely failed to control over the deteriorating crime situation,’’ he mentioned to reporters.