JALANDHAR, Dec 13 — A dispute allegedly linked to drugs led to the stabbing death of a 16-year-old boy in Jalandhar’s Basti Danishmandan area, police said Saturday, triggering political outrage and a manhunt for the accused.
The victim, Vikas Angural, was attacked by three youths at a secluded plot around 10:30 p.m. Friday. He suffered multiple stab wounds and later died at a hospital, officials said.
According to police, the suspects escaped immediately after the attack, leaving behind two mobile phones that were recovered from the scene.
“We have collected crucial evidence, including CCTV footage, and identified strong leads,” said Yadwinder Singh, station house officer of Division No. 5. “The accused will be arrested soon.”
Eyewitnesses told investigators that the suspects called Vikas to the spot following an argument and stabbed him repeatedly. One of the attackers was identified as Kalu, a local resident.
“After stabbing the boy, they threatened people in the area not to alert the police,” said an eyewitness who requested anonymity.
Former Jalandhar West MLA Sheetal Angural, now with the BJP, reached the hospital soon after the incident and later inspected the crime scene with senior party leaders. He confirmed that Vikas was his cousin’s son.
“Narcotics are freely available in Jalandhar West, and this has turned the area into a crime and drug hub,” Angural said. “Repeated warnings have gone unaddressed.”
Police have registered a case under murder and criminal conspiracy provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita, along with sections of the Arms Act. Investigations are ongoing.
