Railway Loco Pilot Murder Case: Son of RPF Constable Detained

 Jamshedpur: The investigation into the sensational murder of loco pilot G.K. Gautam in Bagbera has gained momentum, with police indicating a clear direction in the case. Based on the statement of the deceased’s wife, Reena Rani, a named FIR has been registered against Bagbera Colony resident Rajkishore Singh, his son Avinash Singh, and another family member.

Land dispute suspected as key motive
Preliminary findings suggest that the murder is linked to a prolonged land dispute and may involve a contract killing. Police sources revealed that Gautam had ongoing tensions with the accused over land plotting and financial dealings in the CP Tola area of Bagbera.

Ranchi youth detained, shooters still at large
In a significant development, police have detained a young man from Ranchi, reportedly the son of a personnel from the Railway Protection Force. He is currently being interrogated intensively. While five individuals earlier taken into custody have been released after questioning, the police are now conducting raids based on fresh leads to trace the actual shooters involved in the crime.

Multi-crore investments under scrutiny
Investigators have uncovered that Gautam had invested nearly ₹8 to ₹10 crore in railway contracting and real estate ventures. His expanding financial interests are also being examined as part of the probe.

There is also speculation that Gautam was planning to participate in the parking tender at Tatanagar Station, a move his family had reportedly opposed.

CCTV reveals sequence of the crime
CCTV footage and preliminary investigation have helped reconstruct the sequence of events on the night of April 26.

When Gautam left Tatanagar Station around 12:35 AM on foot, heading towards the Railway Traffic Colony lobby, two motorcycle-borne assailants began following him. The suspects reportedly waited near the Station Town Outpost area due to the presence of people before striking.

As Gautam reached a relatively deserted stretch near the lobby gate, the assailants approached him and fired at close range. A bullet recovered from his head during the post-mortem confirmed the fatal shot.

Police intensify investigation
The officer-in-charge of Bagbera Police Station, Umesh Thakur, has recorded a detailed statement from the victim’s wife. Police are also examining call detail records of Gautam’s mobile phone to identify any suspicious contacts prior to the incident. Raids are underway at multiple locations to apprehend the named accused, who remain absconding.

Body taken to native village for last rites
Gautam, a native of Kharui village in Munger district of Bihar, was taken there by family members for his final rites, even as the investigation continues.