Sikkim Police appeals to Darjeeling people for calm and patience amid ongoing murder probe
Subba further said, “The accused is in custody and is being interrogated. Charges under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which relates to murder, have been framed. He will be produced before the court accordingly.”
LOCAL
In the wake of rising public concern and anger in Darjeeling over a disturbing murder incident in Gangtok, Sikkim Police has issued a heartfelt appeal to the people of Darjeeling and surrounding areas to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed smoothly and fairly.
The case involves a shocking incident in which a 76-year-old man, identified as Pema Gyalpo Ladingpa, allegedly killed a man from Darjeeling near the Krishi Bhawan area of Gangtok. The accused then dragged the victim’s body into a nearby chicken shed before walking into the Tadong Police Outpost around 12:30 AM and surrendering himself. The incident occurred around 11 PM, according to police sources.
Speaking on the matter, Gangtok SP Mahendra Subba said, “We understand the emotional response from Darjeeling. Our appeal to the people is to be patient. We assure everyone that the investigation is being carried out in a completely professional and unbiased manner.”
Subba further said, “The accused is in custody and is being interrogated. Charges under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which relates to murder, have been framed. He will be produced before the court accordingly.”
ASP Karma Chedup Bhutia said, “The main accused has been arrested and we have taken this case very seriously. We are moving ahead step by step. Our only message to the people is – please stay calm. We are committed to ensuring justice.”
Police confirmed that based on the accused’s confession, the weapon used in the crime has been recovered. A scientific examination has confirmed that the injuries found on the deceased’s body are consistent with the recovered weapon.
SHO Niraj Khatiwada said, “The weapon was disclosed by the accused during interrogation. The wounds on the victim match the weapon used, and this has been verified scientifically. Our next step is to determine the motive behind this crime.”
SDPO Mingyur Tempo Nadik added, “This is just one version of the story – the version given by the accused. There are several angles we are exploring. The case is still in the early stage of investigation, and we have just completed about 10% of the entire process.”
Despite the gravity of the crime and the public reaction, police officials have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to transparency and justice. They’ve urged citizens to refrain from spreading rumors or drawing premature conclusions.