Contract killing refers to the act of hiring someone to murder another person for a fee. This illegal activity often involves a third party, known as a hitman, who carries out the assassination on behalf of the person who ordered it, known as the contractor. Contract killings can be motivated by various factors, including financial gain, revenge, or eliminating competition. These crimes are typically premeditated and can involve complex planning and coordination. Law enforcement agencies work to combat contract killings through investigations and intelligence gathering, as they pose significant challenges due to their secretive nature and the involvement of organized crime groups.