In a swift resolution to a shocking double homicide, the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) have solved the murder case of retired principal Sanjay Chandel and his wife Veena Kumari within three days of the incident. The couple was found dead at their residence in the Pouni Chak area of Jammu on September 14, 2024.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Jagdev Singh, shared details of the investigation in a press briefing. According to Singh, the Police Post Pouni Chak received an alert about suspicious deaths at approximately 6 PM on the day of the incident. The bodies were discovered at the couple’s home in Patta Bohri, which falls under the jurisdiction of Police Station Domana.
Accused Deepak Singh, who strangulated the couple, in police custody at Domana Police Station, Jammu
Initially treated as an inquest under Section 194 BNSS, the case quickly evolved into a murder investigation under Section 103 BNS. This shift was prompted by crucial information from family members and corroborating CCTV footage showing a suspect near the crime scene.
Multiple police teams, working under the supervision of SP Rural Jammu, employed both local intelligence and technical analysis to identify and apprehend the suspect. Within 72 hours, the accused, Deepak Singh, also known as Sonu, was arrested in Jalandhar.
Deepak, an e-rickshaw owner residing in Colonel Colony, Talab Tillo, Jammu, was reportedly acquainted with the victims and had been assisting them due to Sanjay Chandel’s health issues. The police investigation revealed that an argument on the day of the incident escalated, resulting in the double homicide.
Financial distress is believed to be the primary motive behind the crime. Interestingly, Deepak had been reported missing by his family on September 9, after he traveled to Jalandhar on September 3 and ceased communication. His family had also filed a separate complaint on September 13 regarding an unauthorized money transfer made by Deepak to an unidentified woman.
During interrogation, Deepak confessed to selling his phone, further suggesting his dire financial situation. The local community has lauded the JKP for their efficient handling of the case, expressing appreciation for the rapid resolution of this tragic incident.
