Subhechcha Ganguly 
The key suspect in the sensational murder of Bihar-based businessman Gopal Khemka was shot dead in a police encounter on Tuesday morning in the Malsalami area of Patna City.
According to senior police officials, the encounter took place when a team reached the residence of Vikas, alias Raja, for interrogation in connection with the murder case. As police began questioning, Raja reportedly opened fire, prompting retaliation in which he was fatally shot.
“Raja had a history of involvement in contract killings and illegal arms supply. In this case, he is suspected to have provided the weapon used in Khemka’s murder at the behest of Umesh, alias Vijay Yadav, who is already in police custody,” said Patna SSP Kartikey Sharma.
Umesh, a former shooter associated with jailed gangster Ajay Verma, was picked up a day earlier from the same locality. During interrogation, he confessed that a contract worth ₹10 lakh was offered for Khemka’s murder, with ₹1 lakh already paid. He also disclosed that Raja supplied the weapon.
Police recovered significant evidence from Umesh, including a motorcycle believed to have been used in the crime, a pistol, 80 cartridges, ₹1 lakh in cash, and two mobile phones. A firearm suspected to be used in the murder was also recovered from a riverbank.
Subsequent raids were carried out at various locations, including Udaygiri Apartment and areas near Patna Junction, leading to the detention of four additional suspects.
Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar confirmed that 12 individuals had been picked up so far for questioning. “We are actively investigating every angle. Please refrain from spreading unverified information,” said SSP Sharma.
Meanwhile, the Khemka family has sought police protection, citing fears for their safety. Notably, Gopal Khemka’s son, Gunjan Khemka, was also murdered under similar circumstances six years ago, raising serious questions about the security of the family and the influence of organized crime in the region.
The case is being probed by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and further developments are expected.
