Gold merchant shot, jewellery looted by bike-borne men in Bihar's Motihari
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A 28-year-old gold merchant, Sujit Kumar, was allegedly shot at and robbed by bike-borne assailants near Basghat under the Chakia police station area of East Champaran district, Bihar, on Wednesday night, triggering widespread panic among local traders. The attackers reportedly fled with a bag containing approximately 300 grams of gold jewellery and 4 kg of silver jewellery. Police are now combing through CCTV footage from the vicinity to identify the perpetrators.
How the Attack Unfolded
Sujit Kumar, son of Awadh Kishore Sah and a resident of Basghat, was allegedly intercepted by the bike-borne men while returning home after shutting his shop. According to Kumar's account to police, the attackers initially fired shots into the air before allegedly pointing a firearm directly at him and demanding the jewellery bag. His father, who was reportedly present at the scene, raised an alarm, but the attackers allegedly shot Kumar and fled with the bag before help could arrive.
Victim's Condition and Medical Treatment
Kumar was rushed to Rahmaniya Hospital in Motihari, where he is currently undergoing treatment. His condition has not been formally detailed by officials, but police confirmed he has been admitted for injuries sustained during the attack.
What the Police Said
Chakia Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Shailendra Kumar confirmed that officers reached the site immediately after receiving information about the shooting. 'The injured merchant has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. The police are examining CCTV footage from the vicinity and making efforts to identify the perpetrators. The criminals involved in the incident will be arrested soon,' the DSP said. An FIR has been registered against two robbers at the Chakia police station, based on statements provided by Kumar and his father.
Investigation Under Way
East Champaran Police are analysing CCTV footage and other available evidence to establish the number of individuals involved, identify the suspects, and trace the escape route taken after the robbery. Authorities have also intensified patrolling in the area in the wake of the incident. This comes amid persistent concerns about organised crime targeting traders and businesspersons in Bihar's semi-urban districts — a pattern that local trade associations have flagged in the past.
Trader Community on Edge
The incident has heightened anxiety among gold and jewellery traders in the Chakia and Motihari areas, who say they often travel with merchandise after closing shops at night. Local traders have reportedly urged authorities to increase police presence along key routes used by merchants. Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses and the CCTV analysis yields results.