Brutal killing of ex-serviceman sparks outrage

jj correspondent
SAMBA, APR 1: A shocking murder in Lala Chak village, under the Rajpura border tehsil of Samba district, has left residents in fear and anger after 60-year-old ex-serviceman Harish Chander was found brutally killed on Wednesday afternoon.
Chander, who had been working as a commission agent (Arhati) at the Dayala Chak vegetable market for over 20 years, was on his way home when he was allegedly intercepted by unknown assailants.
The attackers slit his throat using a sharp-edged weapon, reportedly an ice pick, and abandoned his body near his parked car at Bai Nala along the old Kathua-Samba road.
The gruesome discovery triggered panic in the area.
Local residents quickly gathered at the scene and managed to detain a man found nearby in a heavily intoxicated state, wearing blood-stained clothes.
Police arrived shortly after, took the suspect into custody, and sent the victim’s body to District Hospital Samba for a post-mortem examination.
A forensic team was deployed to the crime scene to collect evidence, including the suspected murder weapon. Authorities have begun a detailed investigation, and the detained individual is currently being interrogated.
While the exact motive remains unclear, initial findings suggest the possibility of a personal rivalry or financial dispute. Police are also exploring whether others were involved in the crime.
The incident has led to strong reactions from the local community, with residents demanding swift and strict action against those responsible.
Police officials have assured the public that a fair and thorough investigation is underway to ensure justice is served.