In a major breakthrough in the high-profile murder of businessman Gopal Khemka, Patna Police gunned down the alleged weapon supplier in a pre-dawn encounter in the Damaria Ghat area early Tuesday morning.
The deceased, identified as Vikas alias Raja (29), was reportedly the man who had supplied the firearm used in the targeted killing of Khemka on July 4. Vikas was also a wanted criminal in multiple other cases and had been evading arrest for several months.
According to senior police officials, a team from the special investigation unit acted on an intelligence tip and surrounded the Damaria Ghat locality around 2:25 am. As officers moved in, Vikas allegedly opened fire in an attempt to escape. Police retaliated, leading to his death on the spot.
"One pistol, a live cartridge, and a spent shell were recovered from the encounter site," said a senior police officer. "Preliminary investigation indicates that Vikas was the one who provided the firearm to the shooter, Umesh, for executing the murder."
His body has been sent to Nalanda Medical College for post-mortem.
Investigation Widens: Shooter, Associates in Custody
Earlier, the primary shooter, identified as Umesh, a resident of Patna City who had been living under the alias Vijay in Delhi, was arrested. Sources reveal that Umesh was hired on a contract worth ₹10 lakh, with ₹1 lakh paid in advance for the job. He reportedly arrived in Patna on June 24 to carry out the hit.
CCTV footage and intelligence reports confirm that Umesh waited outside Khemka’s home in the Gandhi Maidan area, and ambushed him at 11:40 pm on July 4, as the businessman stepped out of his car. He fled the scene moments after firing the fatal shots.
Two more suspects were detained on Monday and are currently being interrogated. Police sources believe these individuals may be part of a larger conspiracy involving contract killing and organized crime networks.
Victim Profile: Who Was Gopal Khemka?
Gopal Khemka, owner of Magadh Hospital and a respected name in Patna's business and social circles, was known for his philanthropic contributions. His murder has sparked widespread public outrage and raised serious concerns about rising crime in the state capital.
The killing comes just months ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, expected to be held in October-November, triggering political tremors and mounting pressure on law enforcement to crack the case swiftly.
Political Reaction and Public Outcry
Political leaders from opposition parties have slammed the Nitish Kumar-led government over the deteriorating law and order situation. Several civil society groups in Patna have called for a citywide bandh if the masterminds are not arrested soon.
