Crime Branch Nabs Jharkhand Murder Accused Sheltering in Delhi

In a meticulously planned operation, Delhi’s Crime Branch has detained Sukhdev Murmu, wanted in connection with the murder of Champai Marandi in Sahibganj, Jharkhand. The 24 May arrest near Yamuna Bazaar brings to an end a nearly fortnight-long manhunt that began after the victim’s body was recovered from a jungle on May 21. According to investigators, the killing occurred on May 12 following an alcohol-fueled dispute involving Murmu and two other men. Champai Marandi was overpowered and strangled; the trio then dragged the corpse deep into the forest to avoid detection. When local police registered a missing-person case, the accused fled the village. Murmu chose Delhi as his hideout, mistakenly believing the capital’s vast population would shield him. A reliable informant tipped off Head Constable Gaurav about Murmu’s presence near Hanuman Mandir. Surveillance teams watched the area for several hours before detaining the suspect without resistance. During questioning, Murmu admitted his role, stating he helped restrain the victim while his companions applied lethal pressure to the neck. He also disclosed that the group had been drinking together moments before the fatal quarrel. Authorities say extradition formalities are being completed and that joint teams are searching for the other two accused. The case highlights both the challenges and successes of cross-border policing when fugitives attempt to disappear in metropolitan cities.