Masked suspect hunted in Shahdara double murder case

Masked Suspect Seen Near Murder Scene in Shahdara

Delhi Police reported that a masked suspect appeared in multiple CCTV footages outside the home of an elderly couple found dead in Shahdara’s Mansarovar Park early Sunday. The couple’s son, Vaibhav Bansal, 28, was taken into custody on Sunday but has been released for now, according to police.

Details of the Incident

The masked suspect was first spotted around 6:30 PM on Saturday and again at 8:20 PM. He was seen walking near the couple’s house. His actions were deemed suspicious, and police are actively searching for him. An officer noted that it seems he came alone and without a vehicle.

Victims Identified

The bodies of Virender Kumar Bansal, 75, a retired school teacher, and his wife Parvesh Bansal, 65, a homemaker, were discovered in separate rooms of their third-floor residence in Rama Nagar Extension.

Initial Investigation Findings

Investigating officers indicated that Virender was struck on the head and face with a heavy object, while Parvesh was strangled. Additionally, Parvesh’s jewelry was reported missing.

Discovery of the Bodies

Vaibhav Bansal, who lived with his parents and works as a gym trainer in northeast Delhi’s Ghonda, allegedly found their bodies at 12:15 AM after returning from the gym. He then notified the police.

Ongoing Investigation

Police stated that the masked suspect was seen hours before the murders. The exact time of the murders is unclear since Vaibhav was out for an extended period. Authorities suspect that the suspect may have had a spare key or made a duplicate key to enter the house, which has an electronic lock system.

Further Actions by Police

On Monday, police mentioned that Vaibhav has been questioned multiple times since Sunday and has been released for now. Investigators are exploring possibilities of robbery and personal disputes.

Additional Findings

Police previously indicated that the suspect had a “friendly entry” into the house. The television was on during the murders, possibly to mask any screams. A post-mortem examination of the two bodies was conducted on Monday morning. Authorities are also questioning Vaibhav, his sister Ekta, their domestic help, and other relatives.