Patna, Feb. 13: Police today claimed the arrest of Harendra Singh, alias Bhua Singh, in connection with the murder of BJP state unit vice-president Visheshwar Ojha (49).
Additional director-general (ADG) (headquarters) of police Sunil Kumar said prima facie, the murder of Ojha, who was facing as many as 17 criminal cases, last evening appeared to be the fallout of a property dispute. "Visheshwar Ojha had many criminal cases lodged against him lodged under Sahpur police station in Bhojpur district."
"Investigations are on in the case from all possible angles. Seven persons have been named in the FIR lodged at Sahpur police station. Six of them remain at large and attempts are on to nab them," said the senior officer, refusing to share more details.
Sources said Harendra Singh was a sharpshooter working for Shivajeet Mishra, presently lodged in Ara jail.
A police officer, requesting anonymity, said: "Haresh Mishra, the main accused, who is absconding, is the son of Shivajeet and a hardcore criminal. Around 20 years ago, the Mishra and the Ojha family were partners and were involved in coal business. Thereafter, they switched to real estate, when they had a fallout over money issues. Haresh had been released from prison just 15 days ago after which he plotted the killing. Harendra, being a sharpshooter, led the team which shot Ojha dead."
Many senior BJP leaders, including Sushil Kumar Modi, BJP state president Mangal Pandey and Leader of Opposition Prem Kumar, today reached Ojha's residence at Ujawalia village in Sahpur to attend his last rites.
The NDA has called a day's bandh in Shahabad range, which comprises Buxar, Rohtas, Bhabhua and Bhojpur districts. Mangal Pandey said: "The NDA has called the bandh as a protest against the murder and the deplorable law and order condition in the state. A BJP delegation will meet the governor tomorrow (Sunday) and demand imposition of President's rule in Bihar."
Defending the government, deputy chief minister Tejaswi told the media: "Why should the chief minister give a reaction? The condition of Jharkhand is even worse when it comes to law and order. Does the Jharkhand chief minister come out and give explanations? The rule of law persists and is present in Bihar."
My family is in grave danger and the police has not even visited us," said Mukteshwar 'Bhuwar' Ojha, the brother of the deceased.
