Police in Bareilly have apprehended a suspect linked to a string of murders targeting middle-aged women over the past year. The 35-year-old suspect, Kuldeep Kumar, has reportedly confessed to the killings of six women.
During police interrogation, Kumar disclosed that his violent actions stemmed from conflicts with his abusive stepmother, who he claimed had attempted to strangle him. Authorities initially investigated a total of nine murders committed under a similar modus operandi.
Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya confirmed that Kumar was arrested near the banks of the Mathiya area, following intensive detective work, including sketch identifications and CCTV footage analysis. Arya informed reporters that the killings, which primarily occurred in the Shahi and Sheeshgarh regions, involved strangulation of six women in secluded forest locations, prompting police action that generated multiple murder cases at local stations.
Three days prior to the arrest, police had released sketches of potential suspects and announced a reward of ₹25,000 for information leading to the capture of the perpetrator. In response to the alarming situation, police initiated “Operation Talash,” assembling 22 specialized teams to bolster the investigation.
These teams reviewed footage from approximately 1,500 CCTV cameras, deployed additional surveillance technology, and engaged the community to raise awareness. In their efforts, officers analyzed data from around 150,000 mobile numbers and targeted individuals from local voter lists.
Moreover, the investigation included expert consultations to gain insights into the psychological profile of serial offenders. The meticulous approach also involved the use of decoys and body cameras, with strategic planning implemented across areas surrounding the Shahi police station.
Authorities reported that Kumar resided in Bakarganj Sanuwa village and specifically targeted women in the Shahi and Sheeshgarh areas, initially attempting to establish personal connections before committing the crimes. Reports indicate that Kumar had a troubled background, with a history of familial violence contributing to his violent behavior towards women.
Following his arrest, police reconstructed crime scenes and recovered several items belonging to victims, including an ID card, clothing fragments, and personal effects. This case continues to be a critical focus for local law enforcement as they work to ensure the safety of the community.
