Balasore, Jun 25: A businessman was shot dead by two unidentified assailants in Balasore on Thursday afternoon, prompting police to launch a multi-team investigation into the killing, a source said.

The deceased was identified as SK Hamid, owner of Freedom Fashion, a car accessories business. The incident took place in Lane No. 2 of Arad Bazar under the jurisdiction of Sahadevkhunta model police station.

Police said Hamid sustained multiple gunshot injuries to his head, face and other parts of the body.

Attack Reported Near Victim's Vehicle
According to the source, two men arrived on a motorcycle and allegedly opened fire on Hamid as he was getting out of his car.

Subsequently, locals rushed Hamid to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Police reached the scene soon after receiving information and launched an investigation.

CCTV Footage Under Examination
Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area, which reportedly shows two individuals wearing black masks following the victim before the shooting.

Police have not officially disclosed further details from the footage, but said it forms part of the ongoing investigation.

Scientific Team Collects Evidence
Balasore Superintendent of Police Pratyush Diwaker said the shooting took place between 3 pm and 3:30 pm.

"The two accused came on a motorcycle and fired at the victim. Preliminary investigation indicates that two separate firearms may have been used," the SP said.

A scientific team that examined the crime scene recovered about eight spent bullet casings, the SP informed.

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Multiple Teams Formed
To investigate the case, police formed four teams comprising personnel from different police stations, along with a special squad.

The teams are collecting evidence, reviewing CCTV footage and pursuing other leads, officials said.

No arrests or detentions had been made as of Thursday evening.

Motive Yet to Be Established
Police said the motive behind the shooting has not been established. Investigators are examining all possible angles, including personal and business-related disputes, officials said.

Security Measures Intensified
Following the incident, police have increased patrolling in Balasore town and stepped up security arrangements ahead of the upcoming Muharram observances.

The SP appealed to residents not to panic and said efforts were underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the shooting.