Bihar Police Neutralizes Suspect Linked to Businessman's Murder in Patna

In a dramatic turn of events, Bihar police have neutralized a suspect linked to the murder of businessman Gopal Khemka during an early morning encounter in Patna. The suspect, Vikas Kumar, was reportedly involved in illegal arms trading and had supplied the weapon used in the crime. This incident has raised serious concerns about law and order in the state, prompting criticism from opposition parties. As investigations continue, the Chief Minister has called for a swift resolution to the case, highlighting the urgency of addressing public safety issues ahead of upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 8, 2025, 12:12 IST

Early Morning Encounter in Patna

Patna: In a significant development, a suspect connected to the murder of businessman Gopal Khemka was shot dead during an encounter in the Malsalami area of Patna early Tuesday morning, as reported by officials.

The individual, known as Vikas Kumar alias Raja, was allegedly present with Umesh Yadav, the shooter directly implicated in Khemka's murder that occurred on Friday night.

The Bihar Special Task Force (STF) and local police executed the operation based on intelligence gathered from Umesh during his interrogation.

Previously, Umesh had been apprehended as the primary shooter in the case. Initial investigations suggest that Vikas was engaged in illegal arms trafficking in Malsalami and had supplied the firearm used in Khemka's murder.

According to police sources, the team arrived at Vikas's residence around 2:45 a.m. on Tuesday, where he opened fire on them. The STF and local police returned fire, resulting in a brief exchange that led to Vikas being neutralized.

"We have detained two individuals and arrested the main shooter involved in Gopal Khemka's murder. Our investigation indicates that a contract of Rs 10 lakh was placed for Khemka's assassination, which was subcontracted to Umesh for Rs 1 lakh," stated a senior police official, noting that more information will be disclosed as the investigation continues.

The murder of businessman Gopal Khemka on Friday night has sent shockwaves through the local business community and raised serious concerns regarding the law and order situation in Patna.

This high-profile case has put the Nitish Kumar administration under scrutiny, especially as the ruling coalition of JD(U) and BJP prepares for upcoming Assembly elections.

Opposition parties, including the RJD and Congress, have criticized the state government over the deteriorating law and order conditions.

Following the shocking incident, the Chief Minister convened a meeting with senior officials, urging them to expedite the investigation into the murder.