Kangan youth’s death turns out to be murder by friends, two arrested
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By Umar Raina
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24 Sep 2025
Ganderbal, Sept 24: Police on Wednesday confirmed that the death of a 20-year-old youth from Kangan, initially suspected to have drowned in the Power Canal in Kaw Cherwan, was a planned murder carried out by his own friends.
The deceased has been identified as Ajaz Ahmed Rather, son of Ghulam Muhammad Rather, a resident of Sultan Colony, Kangan. Investigations revealed that Ajaz was strangulated before his body was dumped in the canal. The shocking revelation came after hours of intense rescue efforts and subsequent police probe.
The body was retrieved after a gruelling 12-hour operation by teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and police. The incident has sent shockwaves across Kangan, with dozens of locals gathering near the canal during the rescue operation. Many expressed disbelief that a minor dispute following a cricket game could escalate into such a brutal act of violence.
Police have registered FIR No. 64/2025 under section 103 (1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station Kangan. Both accused have been arrested and are in custody. During preliminary investigation, a wire allegedly used in the commission of the crime was recovered. Significantly, one of the deceased’s close friends emerged as the prime eyewitness, whose testimony proved vital in cracking the case.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal Khalil Ahmad Poswal (JKPS), while briefing reporters, said that preliminary evidence, including CCTV footage, confirmed that the two accused had purchased the wire later used in the murder.
“The victim was called to the spot yesterday evening, where he was strangulated. Strangulation marks were visible on his neck when the body was retrieved. While the final cause of death will be confirmed after post-mortem, prima facie evidence clearly points to strangulation,” he said.
SSP Poswal assured that scientific methods, including forensic analysis, FSL examination, and medical expertise, are being employed to strengthen the case. He added that minor disputes in the past appear to have triggered the crime, and further details would emerge during the investigation and interrogation.
After medico-legal formalities, the body was handed over to the family for the last rites. Adequate security was deployed in the area to maintain peace.
Authorities have assured the bereaved family of a fair and transparent investigation. Police further confirmed that if any other individual is found involved, strict action will be taken against them.
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