Chandigarh: UT police will have to wait more for 3rd accused’s remand in cashier’s killing

Chandigarh Police Face Extended Wait for Third Accused’s Remand in Cashier’s Killing

Chandigarh police are now anticipating an additional week before they can secure remand for Amit Kumar, the third accused in the murder of Janki Das, a cashier at a chemist shop in Chandigarh. A recent court decision extended Kumar’s custody by seven days to conduct further questioning, following the conclusion of his initial remand period. This delay has raised questions about the pace of the investigation and the potential impact on the trial timeline, with authorities emphasizing the need for more evidence to confirm his involvement.

Timeline of Events and Arrests in Chandigarh

The incident unfolded when Kumar, who had presented a fabricated identity at a hotel in Kajheri, was initially detained by Chandigarh police. However, subsequent investigations ruled out his connection to the crime, leading to his arrest by Jammu police. This shift in custody highlights the complexity of the case, as the accused is now under the jurisdiction of Jammu authorities, while the Chandigarh police await the completion of the remand period to bring him back for further interrogation. The production warrant process, which will allow the police to formally remand Kumar, is expected to take longer than anticipated.

The semi-automatic pistol used in the shooting, which discharged 13 bullets, remains missing. Police officials in Chandigarh have stated their intention to recover the weapon from Kumar once he is remanded. According to sources, Kumar allegedly planned the attack on Janki Das, hiring two shooters to execute the plan. The total payment for the murder was reported to be less than a lakh, with half the amount paid upfront, indicating a premeditated approach to the crime.

Shooting Suspects and Gang Connections in Chandigarh

Aryan and Sunny Mehra, the two shooters involved in the attack, were apprehended in Jammu but managed to flee after being brought to Chandigarh. During an encounter near Dhanas, they were shot in the leg, leading to their temporary capture. This arrest has uncovered a new faction of the Goldy Dhillon gang, with three additional suspects detained from Jammu. These individuals were linked to the Chandigarh-based gang and were ordered to Delhi for a separate assassination target, suggesting a coordinated network of criminal activity.

Further evidence has emerged as the three newly arrested suspects were found in possession of Czech Republic-made pistols, aligning with the weapon used in the cashier’s killing. The chemist shop where Das was murdered is now under scrutiny, with police emphasizing the need for more details about the motive behind the attack. Despite Das’s humble background in Himachal Pradesh and his lack of prior ties to the gang, the case has sparked debates about the possibility of mistaken identity, as highlighted by police officials.

"Das had no known gangster connections, and the shop had not received extortion calls from criminals," stated a police official. "The shooters acted deliberately, confirming their target before opening fire, which suggests a well-planned operation rather than a random act of violence."

As the investigation continues, Chandigarh police are working closely with Jammu authorities to piece together the full narrative. The extended remand period for Kumar is expected to provide critical insights into the motive, logistics, and broader criminal network behind the murder. This case has also prompted a review of security measures at local chemist shops, with officials urging the community to remain vigilant against potential threats.