Bhubaneswar, June 25: A local businessman was shot dead by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants in a shocking incident at Adar Market under the jurisdiction of Sahadevkhunta Police Station in Balasore district on Thursday.

The deceased has been identified as Sheikh Hamid, a businessman well known in the locality. According to preliminary police reports, two armed miscreants arrived at the busy market on a motorcycle and targeted Hamid. The attackers allegedly opened fire at close range, firing around eight rounds before fleeing the scene.

The sudden attack created panic among shopkeepers, customers and passersby in the crowded market area. Hamid sustained multiple gunshot injuries and collapsed on the spot. Local residents and police personnel immediately rushed him to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Balasore for emergency treatment. However, doctors declared him dead upon arrival.

Following the incident, a large number of people gathered at the market, while police teams reached the spot and cordoned off the area. Investigators have begun collecting evidence from the crime scene and are examining CCTV footage from nearby establishments to identify the attackers.

Police have launched a manhunt to trace the assailants and determine the motive behind the killing. Officials said all possible angles, including business rivalry, financial disputes and personal enmity, are being thoroughly investigated.

The brazen murder has sent shockwaves across Balasore and raised concerns over public safety. Senior police officers are closely monitoring the investigation, and further details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.

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