Convict Accused of Kidnapping, Murdering Girl After Jail Release

Authorities have arrested a 45-year-old man, identified as Mukesh, in connection with the abduction and murder of a nine-year-old girl. Mukesh, a resident of Muktsar, was taken into custody on Saturday night after a brief exchange of gunfire with law enforcement. The young victim, whose parents hail from Bihar, had been living in a local slum and went missing early Friday morning. Her body was tragically discovered in a secluded location on Saturday afternoon.

Investigations revealed Mukesh's prior criminal history, including a life sentence for murder handed down in 2010. He was released on parole in November 2022, having spent over 15 years incarcerated. Police suspect he may have sexually exploited the minor before her death and are awaiting forensic results. He also had a previous conviction under the NDPS Act from 2001.

During the attempted arrest, Mukesh reportedly fired at the police, leading to a retaliatory shooting that resulted in a leg injury. He is currently receiving medical treatment at the Muktsar civil hospital. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to determine how the accused obtained the firearm and further details of the crime.