Shillong, Aug 1: Police arrested a 22-year-old man for allegedly murdering a 60-year-old man and kidnapping his daughter in Mawrok Porsohsat village, West Khasi Hills.
The accused has been identified as Koldingstar Thongni. He was picked up from Khlieh Ïew Nongstoiñ at around 8 pm following a joint operation by Nongstoiñ Police and VPDCNA members.
Superintendent of Police Herbert Kharkongor said the incident occurred around 2 am on July 31 at the home of Elbin Kharbani (60) and his wife Seldaris Kharsyntiew. Thongni allegedly cut the power supply before entering the house and attacking the couple in their sleep. Kharbani died while his wife was injured.
After the assault, Thongni allegedly took the couple’s 18-year-old daughter to a forest in Syllei-Iawkhein village. Police said the teenager escaped around 3 pm the same day while the accused was asleep and returned home safely.
Investigators said Thongni was in a live-in relationship with the 18-year-old and was allegedly upset that her parents did not approve of the relationship.
Police have recovered the suspected weapon and other evidence. A case has been registered at Nongstoiñ Police Station under Sections 103, 109, 118 and 140 of the BNS. Further investigation is underway.
The SP lauded VPDCNA members and locals for assisting police in tracking and apprehending the accused within hours.
