DIG JSK’s Supervision, SSP Kathua, Saxena’s Leadership: Police Achieve Breakthrough in Missing Children Case Intensify Probe into Billawar Deaths
Under the supervision of DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, and SSP Kathua Shobhit Saxena, IPS, the Kathua Police successfully located and recovered two missing children (aged 15 and 12) who had been missing since February 27th, demonstrating effective teamwork and investigation.
The search and recovery operation was directly guided by SDPO Border Sh. Dheeraj Katoch, JKPS, and executed by SHO PS Rajbagh Insp. Ajay Singh Chib, highlighting the hands-on involvement of senior officers in the case.
Kathua Police launched a multi-pronged approach, including a widespread search, public notices, and a registered FIR, showcasing a thorough and dedicated response to the missing persons’ report.
Alongside the missing children case, SSP Saxena confirmed ongoing investigations into suspicious deaths in Billawar, including the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and questioning of witnesses, demonstrating the Kathua Police’s commitment to resolving multiple complex cases.
HARPREET SINGH
Kathua, (Jammu) March 15, 2025: In a significant success for law enforcement, the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Kathua, under the leadership of DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, and SSP Kathua Shobhit Saxena, IPS, have located and safely recovered two missing children, aged 15 and 12. The children, Deen Mohd. (15) and Rehmat Ali (12), had been missing since February 27, 2025, prompting a large-scale search operation and widespread concern within the community.
The breakthrough came today, March 15th, at approximately 12:30 PM, when the children were found in the Karandi Kalan area, falling under the jurisdiction of the Rajbagh Police Station (PS). This successful recovery is a direct result of the tireless efforts of the Kathua Police, particularly SHO PS Rajbagh, Inspector Ajay Singh Chib, guided by SDPO Border, Sh. Dheeraj Katoch, JKPS.
The initial missing person report was filed on March 9, 2025, at PS Rajbagh by Swaru, Makhan Din, and Bhag Sain, all residents of Rajbagh Hardo Muthi, Tehsil Marheen, District Kathua. They reported that Deen Mohd. had gone to his sister’s house in Hardo Muthi on February 27th, and from there, he and Rehmat Ali went towards Bhamberwan, near a goat farm, to graze cattle. When the boys failed to return, a frantic search by family and neighbours proved futile.
Immediately upon receiving the report, Kathua Police registered a case (FIR No. 51/2025 U/S 137(2)/BNS) at PS Rajbagh and initiated a comprehensive investigation. The search extended beyond the immediate vicinity, with lookout notices issued and posters in multiple languages displayed at various locations.
At a press conference held at the district headquarters, SSP Shobhit Saxena confirmed the children’s recovery. He acknowledged the considerable effort invested by the police force in locating them. While relieved to have the children back, SSP Saxena stated that they were currently unable to provide clear details due to the trauma they had experienced. He assured the public that specialized counsellors would be working with the children to understand the circumstances of their disappearance. “Nothing is ruled out at this point,” SSP Saxena emphasized, acknowledging the various narratives circulating on social media. He confirmed that the police are thoroughly investigating every possible angle.
In the same press conference, SSP Saxena addressed other pressing concerns within the district. He provided updates on the ongoing search operations in the Billawar area, stating that they were being conducted regularly and expressed optimism for positive outcomes soon.
Turning to the sensitive matter of the suspicious deaths of two young men in the Billawar area, SSP Saxena confirmed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been constituted to conduct a thorough probe. He also addressed inquiries regarding the discovery of three bodies in Billawar, confirming receipt of the post-mortem reports and ongoing questioning of individuals who attended a wedding procession (Baraat) in connection with the case. He assured the public that the results of these investigations would be released as soon as they were available.
The swift and decisive action taken by the Kathua Police, under the strong direction of DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma and SSP Shobhit Saxena, has been widely praised. Their commitment to resolving these complex cases and ensuring the safety and security of the community has reinforced public confidence in law enforcement. The dedication and professionalism displayed by the officers involved, particularly SHO Ajay Singh Chib and SDPO Dheeraj Katoch, deserve special commendation. The recovery of the missing children, in particular, has brought immense relief to their families and the wider community.
