Khunti police have arrested four individuals in connection with the brutal murder of 40-year-old Budhni Purti, a resident of Patradih village, who was suspected of practicing black magic. The gruesome crime occurred in the Murhu police station area on the night of May 6.
The victim was found dead in her home on the morning of May 7 with her throat slit and multiple sharp weapon injuries, indicating a violent attack. Within 36 hours, police swiftly cracked the case and apprehended the suspects.
According to SDPO Varun Rajak, the prime accused is Etwa alias Lor Singh, from the same village as Budhni. Lor Singh, influenced by superstition, believed Budhni was responsible for his infant daughter’s recurring illness. The child, around eight to nine months old, had been frequently unwell, prompting him to accuse Budhni of witchcraft.
Lor Singh allegedly conspired with three associates—Ernius Odeya alias Tatau (Buruma village), Gansa Hassa Purti alias Roga (Kevada village), and Praveen Mundu alias Taklu (Longa village)—to carry out the murder.
On May 6 night, the group entered Budhni’s home while she slept and attacked her with sharp weapons, resulting in her death.
All four accused were presented before a court and remanded to judicial custody. A special police team led by Sub-Inspectors Vimal and Kanchan Kumar Kushwaha used surveillance and community information to track down the suspects.
Police also recovered a tangi (traditional axe) and another sharp weapon believed to be used in the crime.
