The semi-nude body of a 55-year-old woman who had been reported missing was found in bushes near the Pulgaon canal in Chhattisgarh's Durg district, prompting police to launch an investigation into a suspected murder and possible sexual assault.

The deceased, identified as Bhagwantin Bai Sahu (55), had been missing since July 16. Her family filed a missing person complaint at the City Kotwali police station on July 17. Within hours of the complaint, police received information about a woman's body lying in a forested area near the Pulgaon canal.

The body was discovered in bushes along a dirt road leading towards the Shivnath River, adjacent to a Reliance petrol pump. Police reached the spot at around 6 pm, secured the crime scene and began collecting forensic evidence.

Head Injuries Suggest Murder

According to police, the victim sustained severe head injuries, allegedly caused by a stone. Investigators believe the fatal head trauma points to homicide, although the exact cause of death will be confirmed after the post-mortem examination.

The body has been sent for autopsy.

Sexual Assault Angle Under Investigation

Police said the lower part of the victim's body was found without clothing, leading investigators to examine the possibility of sexual assault before or after the killing.

However, officials stressed that there is no official confirmation of sexual assault at this stage, and any conclusion will depend on medical and forensic reports. Investigators are treating both homicide and possible sexual offence as active lines of inquiry.

Victim Last Seen Near Tehsil Office

Preliminary investigation suggests Bhagwantin Bai was last seen near the Durg Tehsil Office between 3 pm and 4 pm on July 16.

Police are now reviewing CCTV footage to determine how she reached the Pulgaon area and whether she was accompanied by anyone. Officers are also questioning local residents and potential witnesses to reconstruct her final movements.

Forensic Teams Deployed

Given the seriousness of the case, teams from the Crime Branch, Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and Dog Squad have joined the investigation.

Authorities have collected physical evidence from the scene for scientific examination and are scrutinising the victim's recent contacts while tracking suspicious movements in the area.

Police Await Post-Mortem Findings

Police said the investigation is being conducted as a suspected murder case. The post-mortem and forensic reports are expected to determine the precise cause of death and clarify whether any sexual offence was committed.

Officials said further action, including identifying and arresting those responsible, will be based on scientific and technical evidence gathered during the investigation.