KHANNA, FEB 7: The Khanna police have apprehended a tenant in connection with the murder of 81-year-old NRI Jagpal Kaur, who was found dead in her home at Nawi Abadi earlier this month. The suspect, identified as Rahul, a native of Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, allegedly carried out the crime to settle a debt of Rs 20,000 incurred for his father’s medical care.
The investigation began on February 1 after authorities received a distress call regarding the elderly woman’s death. Forensic teams and technical units were deployed to the scene, leading to the formation of specialized teams to track the then-unknown assailant. Following a detailed probe, police shifted their focus to Rahul, who resided in the victim’s property with his family.
“The accused was detained on February 6 and admitted to the crime during his initial questioning. He stated he was under immense pressure to repay a loan from his hometown,” Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Khanna, Darpan Ahluwalia, mentioned during a press briefing.
Police officials noted that the suspect had planned the act to avoid detection, entering the house barefoot and leaving his mobile phone behind. According to the confession, Rahul climbed the boundary wall on the night of January 31 and waited for the victim. When she emerged from her room, he reportedly strangled her with a dupatta before concealing her body in the bathroom and stealing cash from a cupboard.
“The dupatta used during the incident has been recovered, and the accused is currently in custody as the investigation continues,” the SSP added.
