Police in Mathura have arrested a 31-year-old man following a brief encounter, accusing him of murdering a friend over suspicions of an illicit relationship with his wife. The incident adds to the accused's long criminal history, which includes serious charges like attempt to murder and violations of the Arms Act.
Chilling Motive Behind the Crime
The case dates back to December 19, when the body of 27-year-old Mukesh Kumar was discovered with severe head injuries in Mathura. Based on a formal complaint lodged by the victim's father, authorities at the Highway police station registered a case under sections 103(1) (murder), 238 (destruction of evidence), and 61(2) (criminal conspiracy) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Investigations revealed a tragic backstory. Station House Officer (SHO) Shailendra Singh explained that the accused, Dharmendra Kumar, a resident of Alwar district in Rajasthan, was living with his wife in a rented Mathura house. Dharmendra had a significant criminal past, with cases ranging from attempt to murder and rioting to theft and Arms Act violations, leading to over two years in a Rajasthan jail.
During his incarceration, Mukesh Kumar, who operated an RO water plant in their village, would often accompany Dharmendra's wife for jail visits. This frequent association bred deep suspicion in Dharmendra's mind. "He grew suspicious and believed Mukesh was having an illicit relationship with his wife," stated SHO Singh.
Confrontation, Murder, and Police Encounter
After his release from jail in October, Dharmendra confronted Mukesh, leading to a heated argument. Police allege that this confrontation culminated in Dharmendra murdering Mukesh and subsequently disposing of the body in a canal.
The net closed in on the accused after Mathura police received a crucial tip-off about his whereabouts. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sandeep Singh detailed the operation, stating that when a police team attempted to apprehend him, Dharmendra opened fire. The police retaliated in self-defence, injuring the accused in the ensuing exchange.
"After a brief encounter, we arrested him and admitted him to the district hospital," DSP Singh said. From Dharmendra's possession, police recovered significant evidence: an illegal .315 bore country-made pistol, two empty cartridges, one live cartridge, and a motorcycle without a number plate.
Multiple Charges and Ongoing Probe
Following the encounter, a separate First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against Dharmendra Kumar. This new case includes relevant sections of the Arms Act and the serious charge of attempt to murder for firing upon the police team.
The accused, who was already out on bail in previous cases, now faces a compounded legal battle. Authorities have confirmed that further investigation is actively underway to piece together the complete sequence of events and ensure a strong prosecution.
This case highlights the challenges of dealing with repeat offenders out on bail and the risks police personnel undertake during such dangerous operations.
