Elderly Couple Brutally Murdered in Janjgir-Champa; Robbery Suspected

Masks and fake hair recovered from the crime scene as police launch a manhunt for suspects who fled with gold jewelry in Chhattisgarh.

In a chilling double homicide that has sent shockwaves through Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district, an elderly couple was found brutally murdered at their residence in Khapri village. Santram Sahu (62) and his wife Shyam Bai Sahu (62) were killed late Tuesday night, with attackers reportedly using sharp-edged weapons to slit their throats.

According to officials, the perpetrators escaped with gold jewelry and cash estimated at ₹80,000. The discovery of a Holi mask and synthetic hair at the scene suggests a pre-planned execution where the assailants attempted to conceal their identities.

Gruesome discovery at dawn

The incident came to light early Wednesday morning when the couple's eldest son, Harishankar Sahu, visited the house to collect agricultural supplies. Finding the front door ajar, he entered to discover his father’s body lying on the floor and his mother dead on a cot, both soaked in blood.

Targeted attack on seniors

Local reports indicate that Santram, a farmer who also operated a small betel shop, lived alone with his wife while their sons resided separately with their families. The timing of the attack is particularly tragic, as the family had celebrated their grandson’s wedding just days ago on March 28.

Evidence of forced entry

Preliminary investigations by the Mulmula police suggest the attackers used a tree adjacent to the boundary wall to scale the building and gain entry. Forensic experts noted that the house was ransacked, and a gold necklace was missing from Shyam Bai’s person, pointing toward a robbery motive.

Strategic use of disguises

The recovery of a mask and fake hair from the premises has added a complex layer to the investigation. Sources indicated that these items were likely used to mislead witnesses or cameras. Bloody footprints were also traced from the bedroom leading out toward the main road, indicating the escape route used by the suspects.

Massive manhunt launched now

Superintendent of Police Vijay Kumar Pandey arrived at the village to oversee the probe. "We have deployed FSL teams and a dog squad to track the movement of the accused. The nature of the entry suggests the involvement of more than one individual who was familiar with the house layout," a senior official stated.

Rising concerns over safety

The double murder has sparked fear among the residents of Khapri, as the village has seen little violent crime in recent years. Relatives and neighbors are currently being questioned to determine if any suspicious individuals were spotted loitering in the area following the recent wedding festivities.

Future course of investigation

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem at the district hospital. While the primary angle remains robbery, Mulmula police are not ruling out personal enmity. A case has been registered against unidentified persons, and authorities claim that an arrest is imminent as digital and physical evidence is processed.