The investigation into the murder of a 15-year-old girl has taken a disturbing turn, with the police probing allegations that the body was packed in a suitcase, transported to a forest near Khuralgarh Sahib and set ablaze in an attempt to destroy evidence.
The victim, Radhika, daughter of Usha Rani of Peer Wali Gali on Garhshankar Road in Nawanshahr, had been missing since May 29. Her family had lodged a complaint at the City Police Station after failing to trace her.
A breakthrough came after a suspect was detained and questioned. Acting on information obtained during interrogation, a police team led by SHO Avtar Singh recovered a charred body from a forested area near the Khuralgarh Sahib–Garhi Mansowal road. The remains were later identified as those of the missing teenager.
Investigators are examining claims that after the murder, the accused allegedly placed the body in a suitcase and transported it to the secluded location before setting it on fire to conceal the crime.
The suspect, identified by sources as Gurbinder Singh alias Gopa, remains under police scrutiny. Officials are working to establish the exact sequence of events, including the circumstances of the murder, the vehicle used and whether others were involved.
Police have collected evidence from the spot, and the remains have been sent for post-mortem and forensic examination. Officials said the forensic findings will be crucial in determining the cause of death and reconstructing the events.
While several leads have emerged, police have not issued a detailed official statement, citing the sensitive nature of the investigation. Further disclosures are expected as forensic reports and additional evidence become available.
