Bathinda Police Crack Suitcase Murder Case with Arrest of Victim's Friend
In a significant breakthrough, Bathinda Police have successfully solved the chilling case involving the recovery of a young woman's body from a suitcase by arresting her friend, who has confessed to the murder. The victim has been identified as Sapna, also known as Malika, a resident of Baghapurana town in Moga district.
Discovery of the Body and Initial Investigation
The investigation began on February 11, when an abandoned suitcase was discovered in fields near Behman Diwana village, located along the Bathinda-Malout highway. Upon searching the suitcase, police found the partially burnt body of a young woman stuffed inside. A case was immediately registered against unidentified persons at Bathinda Sadar Police Station.
Bathinda Senior Superintendent of Police Jyoti Yadav stated that two dedicated CCTV investigation teams were formed to delve into the incident. Through meticulous examination of surveillance footage, it was determined that the deceased was last seen in the Parasram Nagar area of Bathinda. Additionally, technical analysis of the victim's mobile phone was conducted, leading to the scrutiny of approximately 10 to 15 suspicious individuals.
Arrest and Confession of the Accused
On Friday, police apprehended Prince Kumar, a resident of Bathinda, who was identified as a friend of the deceased. During interrogation, Prince Kumar admitted to the crime, revealing that he killed 20-year-old Malika on February 9 following a dispute between them. He further disclosed that after committing the murder, he attempted to destroy evidence by partially burning the body.
The accused detailed his efforts to dispose of the body, stating that on the night of February 10, he tried but failed to get rid of it. Subsequently, on February 11, he stuffed the body into a suitcase, transported it in a silver-coloured Hyundai i20 car to Malout Road, and abandoned it near Behman Diwana village.
Recovery of Evidence and Ongoing Investigations
Police have successfully recovered the vehicle used in the crime as well as the knife employed in the commission of the offence. According to SSP Jyoti Yadav, no previous criminal cases were registered against Prince Kumar, indicating this was his first known offence. The investigation is still ongoing to uncover any further details or motives behind the tragic incident.
This case highlights the diligent efforts of Bathinda Police in utilizing modern investigative techniques, such as CCTV analysis and digital forensics, to swiftly bring a perpetrator to justice. The community has been left in shock by the brutal nature of the crime, and authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.