PATNA, Dec. 2 -- Saran police arrested a key accused in the Chhapra police line murder case following a brief encounter in the early hours of Monday. The arrested man has been identified as Shikari Rai, also known as Nand Kishore Rai, the alleged main shooter in the killing of Azad Singh (41), alias Bhishma Rai, who was shot dead on Saturday afternoon near the Chhapra police line. According to police, Azad Singh - a native of Katihar district currently living in Uttar Pradesh - was chased for nearly 20 metres before being shot in the head from point-blank range. Eyewitnesses said he ran desperately to save his life as the assailants, armed with pistols, fired repeatedly while chasing him. He sought refuge in a roadside private house, but the attackers followed him inside and shot him dead. The brazen killing occurred barely 50 metres from the police line boundary. Police suspect the murder is linked to an ongoing gang rivalry. Saran Superintendent of Police Kumar Ashish said a case has been registered at the Muffasil police station under BNS sections and the Arms Act. Based on CCTV footage and scientific evidence, police identified Shikari Rai as the prime suspect. "During the investigation, we traced his movements after the murder. He was in the Akhtiyarpur area and was planning another incident," the SP added. Acting on the input, police laid a blockade near Bishanpur under the Muffasil police station limits. When the accused reached the spot, he attempted to flee and opened fire on the police team, leading to a retaliatory firing....