Punjab Police Intensify Manhunt, Announce ₹20,000 Reward for Fugitive in Ludhiana Boy Murder
In a significant development in the tragic murder case of a nine-year-old boy in Kasabad village, Punjab Police have officially declared a 20-year-old fugitive as a "wanted man" and are offering a ₹20,000 reward for information that leads to his capture. The announcement comes six days after the boy's body was discovered, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting an extensive police operation.
Suspect's Escape and Alleged Crime Timeline
The suspect, identified as Ajay Kumar, is alleged to have slit the boy's throat just days after escaping police custody from Ludhiana Civil Hospital. His flight from justice began on February 2, when he managed to escape during a medical examination for a foot fracture. At the time of his escape, Kumar was serving a sentence for the rape of a minor girl, having been convicted previously.
- February 2: Ajay Kumar escapes custody at Ludhiana Civil Hospital.
- February 5: The nine-year-old boy vanishes while playing near his home in Kasabad village.
- February 7: The boy's body is found discarded in heavy brush approximately 2 kilometers from his residence.
While initial investigations raised concerns about possible sexual assault, an autopsy has currently ruled this out. However, secondary forensic results are still pending, and police are continuing their examination of the evidence.
Expanding Search and Police Efforts
Salem Tabri police officials have now blanketed the region with posters featuring Kumar's image and details, as the search expands toward the Uttar Pradesh border. Authorities believe the suspect may have fled to his ancestral home near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in an attempt to evade capture.
"Our teams are conducting continuous raids," stated a police official involved in the investigation. "We have already booked individuals found to be sheltering him, but the primary suspect remains at large. His identity is confirmed via CCTV footage showing the victim following him on the day he disappeared."
The police have emphasized that Kumar, being a convicted sex offender who escaped from Borstal Jail custody, is considered extremely dangerous and has a history of violent crimes against minors. The ₹20,000 reward is specifically for verified leads, with authorities assuring that the identity of informers will remain confidential to encourage public cooperation.
Family's Anguish and Public Caution
The victim's father has made an emotional plea to investigators, revealing that the family had no prior relationship or rivalry with the suspect. "I don't know why he targeted my son," he said. "We didn't even know him, even though he lived in the same village. I just want justice."
In light of the ongoing manhunt, police have urged the public to exercise extreme caution. They warn that Ajay Kumar poses a significant threat, particularly to minors, given his criminal background and current fugitive status. Residents are advised to report any suspicious sightings immediately while avoiding direct confrontation with the suspect.
The case continues to develop as forensic teams work to complete their analysis and police expand their search operations across state lines. The community remains on edge as authorities work tirelessly to bring the perpetrator to justice and provide closure to the grieving family.
