Patna: Patna has witnessed a surge in violent crime, with eight people shot and five dead across the city in the span of 24 hours. The incidents, which took place across various neighbourhoods within a 20-kilometre radius, have sparked outrage among residents and raised serious questions about the efficacy of local policing.
Patna City Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Atulesh Jha confirmed the spike in criminal activity and announced urgent measures, including the installation of GPS devices in all patrolling vehicles. “This will help senior officers track the real-time movement of police vehicles and ensure effective patrolling,” he said.
Jha also revealed that the police would increase surveillance on individuals released on bail, particularly those with a history of violent crimes. “Whether criminals surrender or are arrested, we will seek remand and build a strong evidence-based case to secure longer sentences,” he added.
Timeline of shootings across Patna
- Simra village, Parsa Bazaar: 28-year-old Monty Kumar was beaten to death near his home.
- Khajekala: Mohammad Nanhe (40) was shot in the thigh for refusing to sell narcotics.
- Agamkuan: Auto-rickshaw driver Shashi Kumar (28) was fatally shot near Dhanki Mor.
- Panchrukhiya: A four-year-old girl, Priya Kumari, was shot dead at a birthday party.
- Kauwakol, Chowk Thana: E-rickshaw driver Mohammad Kazim (30) was shot in the stomach over a personal dispute.
- Khajekala: Water trader Mantu Rai (35) was shot dead at Tulli Ghat.
- Tej Pratap Nagar, Beur: Community hall operator Sanjay Kumar was shot during his morning walk.
- Phulwari Sharif: Land dealer Mohammad Anwar (60) was shot in broad daylight and later died in hospital. CCTV footage of the incident has emerged.
As fear grips the city, citizens have called for accountability and swift action. In response, the Patna Police claim they are intensifying raids, stop-and-search campaigns, and using technology to regain control.
