Shopkeeper gunned down in busy Makhu market; Police say arrests soon
Ferozepur, June 1, 2026: A prominent shopkeeper was shot dead in broad daylight by two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants in the bustling main market of Makhu town on Sunday, triggering panic among traders and residents.
The deceased, identified as Gurcharan Singh Gaba, owner of the well-known Gaba General Store, was allegedly targeted while at his shop. According to preliminary information, two assailants arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire, hitting Gaba multiple times before fleeing the scene.
The sudden attack sent shockwaves through the crowded market area, with shopkeepers hurriedly pulling down shutters and customers scrambling for safety. Local residents rushed the injured businessman to a nearby hospital, but doctors declared him dead shortly after his arrival.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Bhupinder Singh, along with other senior officers, reached the spot and supervised the initial investigation. Police teams have begun scrutinising CCTV footage from the area and collecting forensic and eyewitness evidence to establish the motive behind the murder.
Speaking to the media, SSP Bhupinder Singh said that although no clear motive has emerged so far, investigators have gathered vital leads in the case. “We have obtained important clues and are working on multiple angles. The accused will be identified and arrested shortly,” he said.
Police said further investigations are underway and additional details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Condemning the killing, District Congress Committee President and former Zira MLA Kulbir Singh alleged that law and order had deteriorated, claiming criminal elements were operating without fear. He demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible and strict action to restore public confidence.