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Investigations into the sensational firing incident near Gandhigram under Pathargama police station limits in Jharkhand’s Godda district have revealed a chilling conspiracy: the attack on the woman was allegedly orchestrated by her own husband, a serving Judicial Magistrate in Bihar’s judicial service, who allegedly hired contract killers to eliminate her for ₹2 lakh.
The probe has established that the attack was not the outcome of any external rivalry but a carefully planned attempt to murder the woman, Vandana Kumari, amid an ongoing marital dispute. According to findings so far, the husband allegedly entered into a deal with hired shooters to carry out the killing and paid an agreed “supari” amount.
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Three shooters have been arrested in the case. The accused have been identified as Shyam Kumar Sah, Subodh Kumar Sah, and Md. Arif, all residents of Kahalgaon police station area in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district. During interrogation, the trio reportedly admitted their role in the crime and disclosed key details of the conspiracy.
The case was registered as Pathargama police station case number 13/26 on the basis of the victim’s statement. The FIR named four accused along with others unknown. As the investigation progressed, the sequence of events and the alleged role of the victim’s husband began to emerge with greater clarity.
Investigators found that Vandana Kumari and her husband had been embroiled in a prolonged matrimonial dispute, with related proceedings pending before a family court. It was during this period that the husband allegedly decided to eliminate his wife and approached the shooters to execute the plan. The accused reportedly conducted prior surveillance to track the victim’s routine movements and travel routes.
On the day of the incident, Vandana Kumari was travelling on a motorcycle when the assailants, who had been lying in wait on another bike, opened fire at her from a moving vehicle. She sustained gunshot injuries and collapsed on the road. Local residents rushed to her aid and ensured she was taken to a nearby hospital, from where she was referred to a higher medical centre due to the seriousness of her injuries. She continues to receive treatment.
The investigation relied heavily on technical and forensic evidence. CCTV footage from nearby locations, mobile call detail records, and location data were analysed to piece together the timeline of events. Correlation of call logs and movement patterns eventually led investigators to the three shooters, who were arrested following raids at multiple locations.
During questioning, the accused reportedly revealed that the amount for the killing had been fixed in advance and that they were instructed to flee immediately after carrying out the attack. Investigators believe that additional individuals may have assisted in planning or facilitating the crime. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend these remaining suspects.
Seized Evidence
Based on the disclosures made by the arrested shooters, investigators recovered several crucial pieces of evidence. These include the front portion of a bullet recovered from the crime scene, two motorcycles used during the operation, a country-made firearm, and three helmets and three face masks allegedly worn during the attack. Officials said the recovered material strongly corroborates the shooters’ involvement.
Authorities stated that all links in the conspiracy have largely been established and that once the remaining accused are arrested, a comprehensive charge sheet will be filed before the court. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the gravity of the crime and the alleged involvement of a member of the judicial service.
The incident has also highlighted how domestic disputes, when left unresolved, can escalate into violent and premeditated crimes. Investigators have maintained that the legal process will be pursued rigorously to ensure accountability.
As the probe continues, officials said all those involved in the conspiracy will be brought before the law. The focus, they added, remains on ensuring justice for the victim and establishing the full extent of the planning behind the attempted killing.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
