JUST LIKE a middle-aged woman character catches the eye of a policeman when she solves a theft case in a popular Bengali TV serial, the Kolkata police found some help from a woman that led to the arrest of a murder accused who was on the run for over over two months.
In a real-life twist echoing a detective drama, a seemingly ordinary afternoon commute turned extraordinary thanks to the keen observation and courageous action of a homemaker. Displaying remarkable courage and presence of mind, the housewife discreetly followed a man, later identified by the police as Kartik Das – a murder accused who was on the run since January – as he alighted from a bus at the Howrah bus stand and made his way towards the bustling Howrah station. She recorded a video of his on her phone, followed him and ensured that he was arrested.
According to the police, on January 21, soon after allegedly committing the crime, Kartick Das fled, moving from place to place in an attempt to evade arrest. For several weeks, he remained on the run, carefully avoiding any suspicion while constantly changing locations, police said. However, his bid was foiled due to the vigilance and bravery of one determined citizen. His photograph was earlier shared by the police on social media and a reward had been announced for any information on his whereabouts.
“The woman, a keen observer and a responsible citizen, spotted Kartik Das inside a bus. Recognizing him, she informed the officers of Haridevpur police station. Demonstrating immense courage, she discreetly followed the accused as he moved towards Howrah Station.
She made a short video of the suspect, confirming his identity and location. With this crucial information, Inspector Tapojyoti Das, in charge of Howrah GRPS, and his team successfully intercepted Kartik Das among hundreds of commuters. A team from the Haridevpur police station soon arrived and formally arrested Kartik Das,” said a senior police officer.
The woman’s husband is an autorickshaw driver
“This operation stands as a testament to the power of citizen vigilance and seamless police coordination. Her courage and quick thinking played a crucial role in ensuring that justice was served. Hence she was generously rewarded,” said an officer.
The murder case dates back to January 23, when the police found the body of a woman, later identified, at a rented residence in Haridevpur. The victim had been killed by having her throat slit. Initial investigations, on the basis of Aadhaar card details provided to the landlord, had identified the suspect as Kartik Das.
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