Chandan Mishra Murder: Key Suspects Brought to Patna, Conspiracy Traced from Hospital to Jailhouse

Patna:  In a significant breakthrough in the high-profile murder of gangster Chandan Mishra, Patna Police on Monday brought four key accused from Kolkata to the state capital under heavy security. The accused, including the alleged shooter Tausif alias Badshah, were escorted in a black Scorpio by four police vehicles and taken to the STF office, where they were interrogated by senior officials, including ADG Kundan Krishnan.

The murder of Chandan Mishra, a known criminal from Buxar, was reportedly planned three days before the attack. Police have arrested Tausif, his cousin Nishu Khan, caretaker Harsh, and nursing assistant Bhim from Kolkata. The quartet allegedly fled from Patna to Kolkata via Gaya, Barhi, and Ranchi after the killing, staying in a pre-booked hotel in the city.

Investigators believe the conspiracy was hatched at Nishu Khan’s residence in Samanpura, Patna — the same locality where Paras Hospital is located. Chandan Mishra, who was out on parole since 3 July for his father’s medical treatment, was shot dead in room 209 of Paras Hospital on 17 July by a group of five armed men. CCTV footage showed that two of the shooters had previously visited Chandan’s home in Sonvarsha village.

Hospital Staff Under Scrutiny

The role of the hospital staff is under investigation. Chandan’s father, Mantu Mishra, has filed an FIR alleging that his son was meant to be discharged on 16 July, but the date was mysteriously shifted to July 17. A second FIR by Chandan’s aide, Durgesh Pathak, who was injured in the attack, alleges hospital negligence, claiming it took staff over 15 minutes to respond.

Police have questioned several employees of Paras Hospital, and the administration has been asked to submit a list of staff members involved in patient security. Investigators suspect that Tausif, who had previously visited the hospital when a friend was admitted, may have been familiar with the premises and some personnel.

Arrest in Kolkata and Jailhouse Links

The suspects were tracked to Sukhi Vrishti Awasan Apartments in Kolkata’s New Town area. After raiding multiple flats with assistance from Bengal Police, Patna’s team detained and interrogated five individuals. Four were later arrested following a dramatic chase through Kolkata’s suburbs, including Basanti Highway and the Bhangar area.

One of the key links uncovered is Omkar Singh alias Sheru Singh, a notorious gangster lodged in Purulia Jail, West Bengal. Police sources say Sheru allegedly contracted Tausif to murder Chandan Mishra for Rs 10 lakh. Sheru had reportedly met both Tausif and Nishu earlier in Beur Jail, Patna.

Digital Footprints and Reels Culture

Police say both Tausif and Nishu were fond of social media and referred to themselves as “Badshah” and “Bhaijaan” respectively. Nishu, who was previously paralysed from a gunshot injury in October 2023, had also received treatment at Paras Hospital. In a viral video following his arrest, Nishu, lying in a car equipped with an oxygen cylinder, claimed he was a patient en route to Delhi for medical care.

FIRs, Suspensions, and Legal Action

Two FIRs have been registered in connection with the case. Apart from Tausif, the accused named include Balwant Singh and Monu of Buxar. Patna Police have suspended one sub-inspector, two ASIs, and two constables for negligence related to the case.

Transit remand for the four main accused has been secured from a Kolkata court, and police have seized Nishu’s vehicle. The murder weapon and getaway bike are yet to be recovered. Meanwhile, the search continues for additional suspects, including those who may have facilitated the planning and escape.