Three Men Held for Brutal Murder of Sand Trader in Patna
Patna police have made a significant breakthrough in a chilling murder case. Three individuals now face charges for the brutal killing of 26-year-old Pankaj Kumar, a local sand trader. Authorities recovered his body from the Ganga River in the Patna City area on Wednesday afternoon.
Father's Alert Triggers Investigation
The investigation gained momentum after the victim's father, Vijay Ray, acted swiftly. He lodged a missing person report at Khajekala police station late Tuesday night. Ray expressed strong suspicions of foul play regarding his son's disappearance, prompting immediate police action.
Accused Confess and Lead Police to Crime Scene
Police identified the arrested men as Vikas Kumar, also known as Bhanu, Sagar Kumar, and Golu Kumar. All three hail from the Tedhi Ghat locality. During interrogation, they admitted to the murder and guided investigators to the actual site of the crime.
Forensic experts thoroughly examined the location. They collected crucial evidence, including bloodstains found at the scene. Samples were taken for detailed DNA analysis to strengthen the case against the accused.
Body Recovery and Arrest Details
City SP (East) Parichay Kumar provided details on the operation. He stated that the accused confessed to dumping the body in the Ganga after the murder. Police immediately launched an extensive search operation involving local divers and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
The recovery team found the body around 3 PM on Wednesday. It was subsequently sent for a post-mortem examination. Following this recovery, officers formally arrested the three suspects.
Murder Weapon and Alleged Motive
According to the SP, the accused confessed to using an iron axe to commit the murder. They claimed to have thrown the weapon into the river. Police efforts to recover the axe are currently ongoing. However, authorities have already secured video confessions from the men.
The alleged motive involves a deep personal grudge. The accused stated that Pankaj Kumar had an illicit relationship with Bhanu's cousin sister-in-law. They also made a serious claim that about two years ago, Pankaj poisoned and killed Bhanu's cousin brother by mixing poison in his liquor.
Police Caution and Investigation Status
Police officials have noted a critical point. The claim about the previous poisoning incident remains unverified at this stage. Further investigation is actively underway to confirm or refute this allegation.
SP Kumar revealed that the murder plot was hatched just one day before the crime. The accused lured Pankaj to a secluded spot behind a school. They used the pretext of sharing a drink together. At that isolated location, they carried out the fatal attack and later disposed of the body in the river.
