Patna: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the murder of prominent Patna industrialist Gopal Khemka has intensified its efforts, conducting raids at 14 locations across Patna and neighbouring districts. Eight suspects have been detained for questioning, while 15 others are being interrogated in connection with the high-profile case.
Despite the heightened activity, the police have yet to arrest the primary accused—neither the shooter who carried out the killing nor the alleged mastermind behind it. Investigators suspect a land dispute or business rivalry as the possible motive, but no definitive link has been confirmed.
The murder, which occurred late on Friday night just outside Khemka’s residence near Ramgulam Chowk in the Gandhi Maidan area, has sparked outrage across Bihar’s business community. According to police, the assailant had been waiting near the apartment gate and shot Khemka at close range as he returned home from Bankipur Club. Investigators believe a ‘liner’—an informant—may have been tracking Khemka’s movements and relaying information to the shooter. Police are currently examining CCTV footage along the route from Bankipur Club to Khemka’s residence.
In a parallel line of inquiry, police are also exploring a potential link to Beur Jail. During a raid on the jail on Saturday, Inspector General Jitendra Rana confirmed the recovery of three mobile phones and a handwritten note containing several phone numbers. Authorities are now tracing the calls made from those numbers in an effort to uncover the network behind the murder.
“We have got vital leads and are following them through coordinated raids. The criminals will be behind bars soon,” said IG Jitendra Rana.
Khemka’s cremation took place on Sunday at Gulbi Ghat following the arrival of his daughter, Garima Khemka, from abroad. The funeral was attended by members of the business community, industrialists, and prominent figures from across the city, all of whom expressed shock and grief over his brutal killing.
