Guwahati, India – At least six people were killed in a shooting incident at Hotel Bilas Inn in Guwahati, Assam, on Monday evening, October 26. Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the attack, with preliminary reports strongly suggesting a property dispute as the underlying motive for the multiple fatalities.

The tragic events commenced around 9 p.m. at the establishment situated in the city's Bora Service area, also referred to as Lachit Nagar. Among the confirmed deceased were Helena Bharali, who owned Hotel Bilas Inn, and her son. The death toll, initially reported to be four or five in early accounts, was later confirmed to have risen to six by the Guwahati Police Commissioner, underscoring the severity and evolving nature of the incident. In addition to the fatalities, several other individuals sustained injuries during the assault and were promptly transported to Guwahati Medical College for immediate medical treatment.

Law enforcement agencies mobilised swiftly following reports of the shooting. A widespread manhunt was initiated across the area without delay, involving multiple police units. This rapid and coordinated response proved effective, leading to the apprehension of a suspect, identified as Ghanakanta Gogoi, within approximately an hour of the incident being reported. Crucially, authorities also successfully recovered and seized the weapon believed to have been used in the fatal attack, securing a key piece of evidence for the ongoing inquiry.

Investigators are currently focusing their efforts on establishing the precise nature and history of the property dispute that is thought to have triggered the violence. This line of inquiry is based on initial assessments from police sources and is considered central to understanding the full context of the incident and the motivations behind the deaths of six individuals. The police probe is meticulously gathering forensic evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage, aiming to piece together the exact sequence of events that unfolded at the hotel.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and garnered significant attention across the region, raising profound concerns about the potential for local disagreements to escalate into such extreme acts of violence. The efficiency of the law enforcement response, particularly the quick arrest of the alleged perpetrator and the recovery of the weapon, has been noted as a critical step in the early stages of the investigation. Authorities have affirmed their commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, pledging to uncover all facts and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their grieving families. Further official statements and details are anticipated as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.