Patna: A 71-year-old retired Assistant Commissioner of the Customs Department, Ram Kumar Singh, was shot dead by armed assailants in Ara town of Bihar’s Bhojpur district on Thursday morning. Police have launched an investigation to identify the attackers and establish the motive behind the murder.
The incident took place in the Kanakpuri locality near the eastern gate of Jain College, under the jurisdiction of Nawada police station.
According to officials, Singh was shot at close range and sustained multiple bullet injuries. Local residents rushed him towards Ara Sadar Hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries on the way. Eyewitness accounts cited in reports indicated that he was hit by eight bullets.
Retired Officer Attacked Outside His Home
Singh was preparing to leave for his daily morning walk when the attack took place. He had brought his motorcycle out of his house and was locking the gate when armed assailants arrived and opened fire.
He collapsed at the spot after sustaining critical injuries. The shooting triggered panic in the neighbourhood, with residents expressing anger and concern over the law-and-order situation.
Singh originally belonged to Lahang Dumariya village under Bihiya police station in Bhojpur district. His father was identified as the late Harvansh Singh. At the time of the incident, he was living in Kanakpuri, Ara.
Police and Forensic Team Investigate Murder
After receiving information about the shooting, Sadar SDPO-1 Sushil Kumar, Nawada SHO Kumar Rajnikant and a team from the District Intelligence Unit (DIU) reached the scene and began investigating the case.
A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team was also called to examine the crime scene and collect evidence.
Investigators are working to establish the motive behind the murder and identify those responsible. As of the latest available information, police had not publicly established the motive or identified any suspects.
Retired Officer Was Active in Social Work
Singh served as the state president of the Shahabad Kshatriya Mahasabha. He was also a trustee of the Ara Nagar Ramlila Samiti Trust and an executive member of the Sanatani Ganga Foundation in Bhojpur.
In addition, he was associated with the Red Cross Society and the Rotary Club. After retiring from government service, Singh remained active in social and community work.
His killing has shocked his associates and local residents, who have demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible. Police are continuing their investigation, and further details are awaited.