Gopal Khemka, identified as a key accused in the high-profile Vikas Raja murder case, was shot dead by Patna police late Tuesday night during an encounter near Pirdamaria, within the jurisdiction of the Malsalami police station. Authorities assert Khemka was armed and resisted arrest, which led officers to open fire in self-defense. This operation comes as part of a broader crackdown on suspects linked to the violent murder of Vikas Raja. The encounter underscores the intensifying efforts by Bihar police to dismantle criminal networks.