Jharkhand: Priest found dead inside home in Dhanbad, murder suspected

A Hindu priest was found dead at his house in Jharkhand’s Dhanbad district on Thursday. Police suspect he was strangled and also attacked with a sharp-edged weapon.

The dead man, Munna Pandey, who was also known as Munna Pandit, was found inside his home in Amatand, which falls under the Katras police station area. Police have begun an investigation into the suspected murder. 

The circumstances of his death, and who is behind it, are not yet clear.

Early information suggests that Pandey was the pujari at the Lilori Sthan temple and lived alone. Neighbours became suspicious on Thursday when they saw no sign of movement at his house, and they alerted the police.

A team from Katras police station reached the spot and searched the premises, where the body was found.

On receiving information about the incident, Ajit Kumar Vimal, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Baghmara, also visited the scene and reviewed the situation.

During the preliminary examination, police found marks suggesting pressure on the deceased's neck, along with injuries that appeared to have been inflicted with a sharp-edged weapon.

The exact cause of death and the sequence of events leading to the incident are yet to be established.

Police officials inspected the house and the surrounding area and began collecting evidence to determine the circumstances of the suspected crime.

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Investigators are examining all possible angles and may seek assistance from forensic experts and a dog squad, depending on the requirements of the investigation.

The deceased's family members have been informed about the incident.

Police are also attempting to establish whether the killing was linked to personal enmity, robbery or any other motive.

No clear information has emerged so far regarding the suspected assailants.

SDPO Ajit Kumar Vimal said the incident appeared to be a murder at first glance and that the police were investigating all possible aspects of the case.

The incident has triggered anger among local residents, who have urged the police to identify those responsible and ensure their arrest. Residents have demanded strict action against the perpetrators.

Police said further investigation was underway to establish the sequence of events, determine the motive and identify those involved in the suspected killing.