Chef Gunned Down in Ara: Police Probe Past Dispute as Motive
A 32-year-old professional chef is fighting for his life after a brazen shooting in Bihar's Bhojpur district. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, occurred on Thursday evening near the Bampali embankment under the Gajrajganj police outpost.
Details of the Brutal Attack
The victim, identified as Raju Paswan, sustained four critical gunshot injuries. Unidentified assailants on a motorcycle targeted him while he was on his way to a supposed job. According to the injured chef's account from his hospital bed, he received a call from someone requesting his culinary services at a hotel in Chandwa. While en route, a bike rider intercepted him, claimed to be the caller, and then opened fire.
"I didn't even recognise the assailant," Raju Paswan told investigators, highlighting the sudden and unexpected nature of the violence. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital in Ara, where he is currently undergoing intensive treatment.
Police Investigation Points to Old Grudge
Law enforcement officials swiftly responded to the scene. Ara Sadar SDPO-1 Raj Kumar Shah and Gajrajganj OP SHO Chanchal Mahatha led the team that initiated the probe. Preliminary findings suggest the attack may be the result of a simmering previous conflict.
Police officials revealed that Raju Paswan, who originally hails from Harijan colony under Kiul police station in Lakhisarai district but currently resides at Jawahar Tola in Ara, has worked at several hotels. A quarrel at one of his former workplaces is considered a possible motive behind the attempted murder.
"As soon as the dial 112 team received the information they rushed to the spot and admitted the injured cook to a hospital. Efforts are on to identify and nab the culprits," stated SDPO Raj Kumar Shah, assuring that the investigation is active.
Community and Legal Repercussions
The shooting has raised concerns about law and order in the area. The police are now meticulously examining the victim's professional history and personal connections to unravel the plot. The use of a fake job call to lure the victim indicates a premeditated plan, adding a layer of complexity to the case.
Authorities are scanning CCTV footage from the vicinity and questioning potential witnesses. The focus remains on apprehending the bike-borne attackers and establishing the exact sequence of events that led to this violent assault on a working professional.
