BALAGHAT: The quiet town of Katangi in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat district has been plunged into terror after yet another elderly couple was found brutally murdered in their home, marking the second such gruesome double homicide in just two months.
In a chilling repeat of the violence that shook the community in December, the latest victims—identified as 65-year-old Ramprasad Gajbhiye and his 60-year-old wife Shantibai—were discovered in their pool of blood at their residence in Kheri village on Tuesday morning.
The Gruesome Discovery
According to police sources, the elderly couple was found with severe head injuries, suggesting they were bludgeoned to death with a heavy object. The assailants reportedly broke into the house during the night, attacking the couple while they slept.
"The scene was horrific," said a senior police official who visited the crime scene. "The couple had sustained multiple injuries, and preliminary investigation suggests robbery as a possible motive, though nothing can be confirmed until we complete our investigation."
Pattern of Terror Emerges
This brutal killing bears striking similarities to the December incident where another elderly couple—Mohan Singh Dhurve (72) and his wife Sukhwati Bai (68)—were murdered in their sleep in the neighboring Parsadi village. The modus operandi in both cases appears identical, raising concerns about a potential serial attacker targeting elderly couples in the region.
Local residents are living in constant fear, with many elderly couples reportedly moving in with their relatives in nearby towns until the killer is caught.
Massive Police Operation Underway
Balaghat police have launched a massive manhunt, forming multiple teams to track down the perpetrators. Forensic experts have been called in to collect evidence from the crime scene, while police are conducting door-to-door inquiries in the area.
"We are exploring all possible angles," said Balaghat Superintendent of Police Sameer Yadav. "Special teams have been formed and we are using all available resources to solve this case. We urge residents not to panic and to report any suspicious activity immediately."
Community in Shock
The twin murders have shattered the peace in this typically tranquil region. "We never locked our doors at night until now," said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. "But after two such incidents, everyone is terrified. Elderly couples living alone are particularly vulnerable and frightened."
Local authorities have increased night patrols and are conducting security awareness sessions in villages across Katangi. Police have also advised elderly couples living alone to install security measures and alert neighbors about any unusual activities.
