Delhi Man Arrested for Allegedly Murdering Five-Year-Old Cousin in Family Dispute
A 22-year-old man has been taken into custody by the Delhi Police for the alleged murder of his five-year-old cousin. The tragic incident occurred in outer Delhi's Ranhola area, stemming from an ongoing family dispute between the accused and the child's parents.
Discovery of the Crime
The Ranhola police station received a PCR call around 12:20 PM on Thursday regarding the alleged murder of a young boy from Mohan Garden. The victim was found with severe injuries on his neck. According to the boy's father, the child had been missing since Tuesday. The body was initially discovered that same day by the child's cousin, Ravi Kumar, at an under-construction building located just a few meters away from their residence.
Police Investigation and CCTV Analysis
During the initial inquiry, police learned that Kumar, who works as a roadside fish-seller and laborer, is the nephew of the deceased boy's father. The child had been residing with his maternal grandparents at the time. While the boy's father initially suspected the child's mother, who had left the home on Tuesday due to family conflicts, she was later traced to Chhapra in Bihar where she denied any involvement in the crime.
"A dedicated police team meticulously analyzed CCTV footage from the surrounding areas and conducted thorough local inquiries with street vendors and shopkeepers," stated DCP (outer) Vikram Singh. "The CCTV analysis proved crucial, revealing that the child was last seen with Ravi Kumar around 3:24 PM on the day he went missing."
Confession and Motive
During interrogation, Kumar confessed to police that he wanted to teach a lesson to his aunt, the mother of the boy, due to persistent family disputes between her and his maternal uncle. According to police statements, the accused allegedly took the boy to the under-construction building while under the influence of alcohol.
The investigation revealed that Kumar pushed the child to the ground, pressed on his neck, and then allegedly used a kitchen knife to slash the boy's neck. After committing the act, he covered the body with a jacket and continued drinking for two consecutive days, reportedly consumed by guilt over his actions.
Attempt to Conceal the Crime
Later, under the pretext of collecting small pieces of wood, Kumar returned to the building where he had left the body. He brought the child's remains back home and falsely informed family members that he had discovered the boy dead at the location. Police have since seized the alleged murder weapon, the kitchen knife used in the crime.
Ongoing Investigation
The Delhi Police continue their investigation into this heartbreaking case, which highlights the tragic consequences of unresolved family conflicts. The accused remains in custody as authorities gather additional evidence and prepare their case for prosecution. This incident has sent shockwaves through the Ranhola community, raising concerns about family violence and child safety in residential areas.
