Sitamarhi: A rice trader was shot on Saturday night in Sitamarhi district. The incident happened around 9.30 pm near Hanuman Chowk in the Sonbarsa area. The trader, Sonalal Mahato, aged 62, was returning home after closing his shop. He was on a bike with his associate Umesh Kumar when two men on another bike overtook them and fired at him.
The bullet hit Sonalal in the chest. His associate Umesh Kumar ran away after hearing the gunshot. Sonalal’s wife was following them on another bike but the attackers did not target her. Locals rushed to the spot after hearing the sound of firing and found Sonalal lying on the road covered in blood.
People first took him to the Sonbarsa Primary Health Centre. Seeing his serious condition, doctors referred him to Sitamarhi district headquarters hospital for better treatment. At present, he is being treated by Dr Varun Kumar and his condition remains critical.
Police reached the spot soon after the incident. Superintendent of Police Amit Ranjan said the firing might be due to disputes over money but the real reason will be known after investigation. CCTV footage from nearby shops is being checked to identify the attackers. The SP said it is too early to say anything clearly and police are looking into all possible angles.
