Hazaribagh, August 30, 2026: Police have recovered the body of Sandeep Thakur, a resident of Koli village under Patal Panchayat in Keredari block, from the Damodar River, days after he was reported missing. His friend, 18-year-old Shanichar Ganjhu alias Shani, has been detained in connection with the case.
According to police, Shani allegedly admitted during questioning to killing Sandeep. The investigation is now focused on establishing the circumstances and motive behind the alleged murder.
Sandeep had been missing since August 25
Sandeep had reportedly been missing since August 25. His family searched for him but could not trace him.
After several days without any information about his whereabouts, the family approached Keredari police station on August 29 and reported his disappearance.
During the investigation, police suspected Sandeep’s friend Shani, who was subsequently taken into custody for questioning.
Police said information obtained during questioning indicated that Sandeep had allegedly been killed and his body thrown into the Damodar River.
Body recovered from Damodar River
Acting on the information, police launched a search operation in the river area.
On Sunday, the team recovered Sandeep Thakur’s body from the Damodar River. The recovery provided a major breakthrough in the missing-person investigation.
Police are now investigating the alleged motive, the weapon reportedly used in the incident and other circumstances surrounding the death.
Another body found during search
During the search for Sandeep, police also received information about another body in the Damodar River area.
The identity of the second deceased person has not yet been established. Police are investigating the person’s identity as well as the circumstances under which the body reached the river.
Accused and deceased were from same village
Sandeep Thakur and Shanichar Ganjhu alias Shani are both reported to be residents of Koli village under Patal Panchayat in Keredari block.
Police are continuing to question the detained suspect to determine the circumstances behind the alleged killing. The body has been taken through the process for post-mortem examination, while investigators are also collecting other evidence related to the case.
The allegation of murder and the reported admission remain part of the police investigation; guilt will be determined through due legal process.
