A 62-year-old farmer was fatally shot near his residence under Pipra Tarn police station limits in Palamu district late Tuesday night. The body of Raj Muni Pathak, a resident of Karma village under Amba Baar panchayat, was discovered in a field early Wednesday morning by his family members.
Police Suspect Land Dispute
Police sources indicate that a land dispute may be the motive behind the killing, although this remains unconfirmed. The body exhibited firearm injuries on the back and forehead. Lesliganj Sub Divisional Police Officer Manoj Kumar Jha stated, "Police are investigating the murder. Pathak was shot in the head from behind. The exit wound is on the forehead."
Details of the Incident
The officer-in-charge of Pipra Tarn police station, Nilesh Kumar, reported based on family accounts: "Two individuals arrived at Pathak's house around 8 pm on Tuesday. He came out in a vest and underwear and walked away with them." The family did not suspect anything initially, assuming Pathak had attended a wedding ceremony taking place in the village.
A local resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained, "Had there not been a wedding nearby, the family would have searched for him at night. But due to the ceremony, and Pathak being sociable, everyone assumed he was there. The killers exploited this opportunity."
Police have launched an investigation into the murder. The body has been sent for postmortem examination. Further details are awaited as the inquiry progresses.
About the Author: MF Ahmad covers Palamu and Latehar districts and writes extensively on wildlife and human interest stories.
