Crime – Two Indian-Origin Men Killed in Italy During Baisakhi Gathering

Crime –  Two men of Indian origin were shot dead late Friday night in northern Italy in an incident that has deeply unsettled the local Sikh community. The victims, both aged 48 and originally from Punjab, were attacked while leaving a religious gathering held to mark the Baisakhi festival in the town of Covo, located in Bergamo province.

Victims Identified as Long-Time Residents

The deceased have been identified as Raginder Singh, a resident of Covo, and Gurmit Singh, who lived in the nearby town of Agnadello. According to local reports, both men were well-known within the community and had attended the event at a warehouse that was being used as a temporary place of worship.

The gathering had drawn members of the Sikh community to celebrate Baisakhi, one of the most significant festivals in Sikhism. The mood of the evening was reportedly peaceful before the violence unfolded.

Shooting Occurred Outside Worship Site

Authorities stated that the attack took place at approximately 11:50 pm in the square outside a gurdwara situated on Via Campo Rampino, in an industrial part of the town. The assailant allegedly opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene in a white vehicle.

Investigators later recovered around ten bullet casings from the site, suggesting that multiple shots were fired. One additional individual was reportedly grazed by a bullet during the incident, though no further injuries have been officially confirmed.

Eyewitness Accounts Provide Early Clues

An eyewitness told local media that the suspected shooter may also be of Indian origin and was known to visit the same place of worship. However, officials have not yet confirmed the identity of the attacker or established a clear motive behind the killings.

Initial assessments by law enforcement indicate that the incident was unlikely to have resulted from a spontaneous argument or sudden escalation. This has led investigators to consider the possibility of a premeditated act.

Police Launch Extensive Investigation

Italy’s military police have initiated a full-scale investigation into the case. The area surrounding the crime scene was quickly sealed off, and forensic teams were deployed to gather evidence.

Authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby locations and appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information that may assist in identifying the suspect and understanding the circumstances leading to the attack.

Community Left in Shock

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the Sikh community in the region, many of whom had gathered to celebrate a religious occasion just hours before the violence occurred. Community leaders have expressed grief and called for calm, urging authorities to ensure swift justice.

A larger, officially organized Baisakhi celebration had been scheduled to take place nearby on Saturday, with participation from local institutions. However, the mood has shifted significantly in the wake of the killings.

Authorities Continue to Seek Answers

As the investigation continues, officials have emphasized that all possible angles are being examined. While no arrests have been made so far, law enforcement agencies have assured the public that efforts are underway to bring those responsible to justice.

Further details are expected as the probe progresses, with authorities working to determine both the identity of the attacker and the motive behind this fatal shooting.