Hazaribagh, September 07, 2026: Police have arrested the main accused within 24 hours of the shooting of a retired teacher in Padma and recovered a pistol, ammunition, the motorcycle allegedly used in the attack and two mobile phones.
The shooting took place on September 6 near Suryapura Chowk in the Padma area, where, according to police, motorcycle-borne attackers opened fire on retired teacher Rajesh Kumar Mehta.
The teacher was reportedly returning home on foot after getting his beard shaved at a shop near the junction when the attackers allegedly fired multiple rounds at him. He sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.
SIT traces accused to Jighu village
Following the incident, a special investigation team was formed under the leadership of Barhi SDPO Radha Prem Kishore.
Acting on confidential information and technical inputs, the SIT conducted a raid at Jighu village in the Padma area. Police arrested the alleged main accused, Krishna Mahto, from his sister’s house.
According to police, Mahto told investigators during questioning that he had an old personal dispute and rivalry with the retired teacher. Police allege that he planned the attack as an act of revenge.
The statement attributed to the accused is part of the police investigation and does not by itself establish guilt.
Weapon and ammunition recovered
Based on information allegedly provided by the arrested accused, police recovered a loaded pistol, eight live cartridges, a misfired cartridge and two empty cartridge cases.
The motorcycle allegedly used during the incident and two mobile phones were also recovered.
Police are now investigating the possible involvement of other people who may have assisted in the attack. Further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances of the shooting and the roles of any other suspects.
