Police in the Nalanda district of Bihar have uncovered a shocking twist in the killing of excise department constable Ajit Kumar in the Pawapuri area. While the incident was initially suspected to be the result of firing by liquor smugglers or informants, a thorough police investigation revealed that the constable was actually struck and killed by a bullet fired by a home guard member of his own raiding party. Nalanda Superintendent of Police Hriday Kant stated that a total of five individuals, including excise sub-inspector Pushpa, constable Anup, two home guard personnel, and a private vehicle driver, have been arrested for destroying evidence and attempting to mislead law enforcement.
Unraveling the Truth Behind the Shooting
The incident occurred on the night of October 14 at around 10:30 PM in the Pawapuri region. A Patna EIB team in a private black Scorpio was tailing a pick-up truck loaded with illicit liquor, and sub-inspector Pushpa's team stationed in Rajgir had been summoned to intercept from the front. During the chase, a change in route caused the liquor pick-up to pull ahead, leaving the EIB Scorpio in the middle and sub-inspector Pushpa's team trailing at the back. According to police, acting on instructions from sub-inspector Pushpa, a home guard in her team fired three rounds. Two rounds misfired, but the third shattered the rear windshield of the Scorpio ahead and struck constable Ajit Kumar directly in the back of the head.
Attempt to Conceal Evidence and Mislead Authorities
Following the fatal shooting, the excise team chose not to inform the local police station and instead attempted to suppress the matter. In an effort to destroy evidence, they transported the damaged vehicle all the way to Patna. When details of the incident emerged the following morning, the SP constituted a Special Investigation Team headed by the Rajgir SDPO. During interrogation, glaring contradictions emerged in the statements given by the team members. Furthermore, inspection of the seized vehicle in Patna revealed bullet impact marks on the rear, effectively shattering the fabricated narrative.
Ongoing Investigation and Further Arrests Expected
Authorities have recovered the rifle used in the incident along with two unspent cartridges, while efforts are underway to locate three empty casings. The SP noted that the SIT is investigating various angles, including violations of standard operating procedures and the tracking down of the escaped liquor-laden pick-up truck. Addressing rumors regarding a prior relationship between the female sub-inspector and the deceased constable, the SP stated that this has not yet been officially verified and a comprehensive probe is underway. Police indicated that more arrests could follow as the investigation progresses.
