Patna: Police in Patna have arrested three brothers and two of their friends for allegedly murdering a 30-year-old e-rickshaw driver, identified as Mohammad Shehzada, in the Didarganj police station area. The murder, which took place on August 17, is said to be linked to the victim’s alleged relationship with a 20-year-old woman from the same locality.
According to police, the woman’s two brothers, a cousin, and two friends allegedly lured Shehzada under the pretext of attending a birthday party. They booked his e-rickshaw and took him near Sitaram Rajendra College in Madhopur Fatehpur, where the attack was carried out with sharp and blunt weapons.
Details of the Crime
Investigators said the accused carried a knife, chisel, and hammer concealed inside a gift-wrapped box to avoid suspicion. Once they reached a deserted stretch near the college, they allegedly overpowered Shehzada, assaulted him with the weapons, and later dumped his body in a waterlogged field. His e-rickshaw’s number plate was also broken in an attempt to destroy evidence.
The police recovered tools including a chopper, rod, and pipe wrench near the body, which was discovered on August 18. Residents staged protests in Hajiganj following the recovery, demanding strict action.
Relationship Behind the Murder
Preliminary investigation revealed that Shehzada, who was married and a father of two, had been in a relationship with the young woman for nearly two years. The accused reportedly objected to the affair and had warned both individuals multiple times. Police said resentment over the relationship appears to have led to the crime.
Police Action
Patna Rural SP Vikram Sihag confirmed that the accused confessed to the crime during interrogation. “The girl’s three brothers, along with their two friends, planned and executed the murder. The weapons used in the attack have been seized,” he said.
The five accused have been booked on charges of murder and criminal conspiracy. Further investigation is underway to ascertain if others were involved.
