KATHMANDU: An unidentified gang of people has opened fire at CPN (Maoist Center) leader Deepak Pandey in Kapilvastu.

Leader Pandey was shot at Sadwa along the Taulihawa-Jitpur road section in the district on Wednesday night, according to SP Nawaraj Adhikari.

Pandey has sustained bullet injuries to his stomach. Indian citizen Iraj Akhtar Musalman who was pillion riding motorcycle with Pandey has sustained wrist injuries.

Three motorcycle-borne people opened fire at Pandey while he was heading to Taulihawa from Jarlaiyakhola, a preliminary investigation of the police has shown, said Adhikari.

Injured Pandey is receiving treatment at Bhairahawa Medical College. Police said they have launched a manhunt to nab the culprits and are investigating the case.