Locals worried that culprits of Bhagrathi rape and murder case may escape

Published On: February 9, 2021 12:46 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

BAITADI, Feb 9: Police have not been able to identify those involved in raping and killing Bhagrathi Bhatta, 17, of Chadepani of Dogadakedar Rural Municipality. The investigation is underway but the police have not found any reliable clues to reach the perpetrators. As the investigation continues with no lead, locals are worried that the culprits may escape.

Leaders of various political parties in the district are mounting pressure on the police to identify those involved in the rape and murder case at the earliest. Chief District Officer Mohan Raj Joshi on Monday held discussions with political parties at the District Administration Office and assured that no effort would be spared to identify those involved in the murder. Stating that investigation is underway and all angles are being analyzed, he said that the culprits will be identified and arrested soon.

“We will have no peace of mind until the culprits are arrested,” said Prem Bahadur Chand, secretary of Nepali Congress, Baitadi. He urged the police to identify the culprits through an impartial investigation without any pressure or influence. CDO Joshi said that the investigation is being carried out using all methods and procedures and the case will be concluded soon.

A team led by Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Pancha Kumar Bakhu has been deployed to analyze the technical aspects of the incident. According to spokesperson for the District Police Office, Baitadi, Janak Dhami, interrogation is being carried out with various people, vehicle owners and Bhatta's friends who were around the site when the incident happened.

“Many suspects have been questioned, although no one has been arrested so far,” he said. “No effort will be spared in the investigation.”

Bhatta went missing on Wednesday. Her dead body was found in a jungle near her home. The incident which resembles the Nirmala Panta rape and murder case has left the relatives of the victim worried that the culprits may escape.