Patna: Two people were critically injured after gunmen opened fire in broad daylight in Patna, in an incident that has triggered panic in the Gopalpur area and prompted a police investigation into a suspected land dispute.
The attack took place within the jurisdiction of the Gopalpur police station, where assailants travelling in a sport utility vehicle allegedly fired multiple rounds at a group of men returning from inspecting a plot of land.
According to police and eyewitness accounts, more than half a dozen shots were fired. Omprakash Yadav, a resident of the Alamganj area, sustained a gunshot wound to his leg, while another man, identified as Jitendra, suffered two bullet injuries to the abdomen. Both were taken to Nalanda Medical College Hospital for treatment, where their condition was reported to be critical.
Victim names suspects
Police said Yadav, who is understood to be associated with a local hotel business, has named three individuals — Uday Singh, Ujjwal Singh and Gaurav Singh — as being involved in the attack. Based on his statement, officers have initiated further action.
The shooting caused chaos in the locality, with residents rushing out after hearing gunfire. Police teams reached the scene soon after and began collecting evidence while questioning witnesses.
Land dispute suspected
Preliminary findings suggest the incident may be linked to a dispute over land ownership. Investigators, however, said they are also examining other angles, including personal enmity and possible conspiracy.
“Given the seriousness of the case, a special team has been formed. Raids are being conducted to arrest the accused, and CCTV footage from the area is being analysed,” said Ranjan Kumar, a deputy superintendent of police.
Police said efforts to identify and apprehend the attackers are ongoing, as tensions remain high in the area following the incident.
