A woman and her two minor daughters were found murdered inside their home located within the premises of a mosque in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district. The victims were reportedly attacked with a sharp-edged weapon and were discovered lying in pools of blood on Friday evening.
Victims found inside mosque premises
The deceased have been identified as 30-year-old Israna and her two daughters, Sofia (5) and Sumaiya (2). The family lived in a residence located within the compound of the Badi Masjid in Gangnauli village. According to police officials, the bodies were found by children who had come to attend their daily lessons at the mosque, where Israna also taught.
The shocking discovery sent shockwaves through the village, prompting locals to gather at the site. Many residents expressed outrage over the brutal killings, demanding swift action against those responsible.
Imam’s family targeted during his absence
Police said Israna was the wife of Ibrahim, the Imam of Gangnauli’s main mosque. At the time of the incident, Ibrahim was reportedly away in Deoband for work. A native of Sunna village in Muzaffarnagar district, Ibrahim had been serving as the Imam at the Badi Masjid for the last four years.
Neighbours told police that the family was well-regarded in the locality, and there had been no recent reports of disputes. However, investigators have not ruled out any motive yet.
Police launch probe into triple murder
Superintendent of Police Suraj Kumar Rai, Additional SP Praveen Kumar Chauhan, and Circle Officer Vijay Kumar rushed to the spot after receiving information about the murders. The bodies were later sent for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause and time of death.
Deputy Inspector General (Meerut Range) Kalanidhi Naithani said that multiple angles are being investigated, including possible family disputes, robbery, or personal enmity.
“We are probing all possible angles, whether it is a case of family dispute, robbery or enmity. Five dedicated teams have been formed. The culprits will be arrested soon,” Naithani told PTI.
Villagers demand swift justice
As police tried to move the bodies from the scene, several villagers protested, accusing the authorities of slow response. The situation was brought under control after senior officers intervened and assured residents of a speedy investigation.
Local sources said that security in the area has been stepped up and police patrols intensified to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials have also collected CCTV footage from nearby locations to trace the suspects.
Investigation underway
The triple murder has sparked concern across the district, with police officials terming it a “sensitive case.” Forensic experts and crime branch teams have joined the probe, and authorities are awaiting the autopsy report to determine whether sexual assault or robbery played a role.
Police said they are also questioning individuals known to the family to gather more clues about possible motives behind the attack.
As investigations continue, the residents of Gangnauli remain in shock over the gruesome crime that has shaken their otherwise quiet village.