Gurdaspur: A chemist was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Punjab’s Gurdaspur district after allegedly refusing to comply with an extortion demand of Rs 50 lakh, triggering fresh concerns over targeted attacks on traders in the region.The victim, identified as Ranbir Singh Bedi, was attacked near his medical store when armed assailants opened fire at close range. He sustained multiple gunshot injuries and was declared dead on the spot. The incident created panic in the area, following which police rushed to the scene and cordoned off the location.According to police officials, preliminary investigations indicate that the killing was linked to an extortion threat. The chemist had reportedly been receiving calls demanding ₹50 lakh, which he refused to pay. Police recovered four bullet cartridges from the spot and have launched a manhunt to trace the shooters.Also Read: Surat Chemist Allegedly Manufactured Banned Mephedrone to Repay Forex Losses, HeldGurdaspur Senior Superintendent of Police Mehtab Singh Gill stated that a case has been registered and multiple teams have been formed to investigate the murder. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined and witnesses are being questioned to identify those involved in the crime.The incident has once again highlighted the issue of extortion threats faced by business owners in Punjab, particularly small traders and chemists, raising concerns over their safety and security, reports The Hindustan Times.Police have assured that all angles are being probed and that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the murder.Also Read: Medicines Aren’t Groceries: AIOCD Urges PM to Shut Down Illegal Online Pharmacies After Blinkit Sting