Key Suspect in Patna Businessman's Murder Killed in Police Encounter
A key suspect in the high-profile murder of Patna industrialist Gopal Khemka has been killed in a gunfight with police. The accused, identified as Vikas Kumar alias Raja, was tracked down by a joint team of Bihar's Special Task Force and local police. Officials said Kumar opened fire when confronted, prompting retaliatory fire that resulted in his death. This development follows the earlier arrest of the main shooter, as police continue to investigate the contract killing that has intensified scrutiny of Bihar's law and order.
Unpacked:
Gopal Khemka was a prominent Patna-based industrialist reportedly associated with the BJP. His murder drew particular attention due to his public profile and because it followed the earlier killing of his son seven years ago, raising concerns about law and order and targeted attacks on business figures in Bihar.
Vikas Kumar, also known as Raja, was an illegal arms manufacturer and seller accused of supplying the weapons used in Gopal Khemka’s murder. He was considered a key suspect and was killed in a police encounter after opening fire on officers attempting to arrest him.
Early investigations suggest a revenge motive, with Khemka's murder believed to be part of a wider pattern of targeted killings, extortion, gang rivalry, and personal vendetta in the region. The crime appears to have been a pre-planned execution linked to larger criminal networks.
Authorities initiated a high-intensity operation, forming joint teams from the Special Task Force and local police. Multiple suspects, including the main shooter, have been arrested. Bihar’s Chief Minister reviewed the law and order situation and ordered a swift investigation, reflecting heightened official scrutiny and pressure to restore order.