A 22-year-old migrant labourer from Bihar has been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly murdering his 25-year-old wife over suspicions of infidelity and dumping her body in a stormwater drain, police said on Thursday, October 22.
The accused, identified in multiple reports as Mohammad Irfaj, allegedly killed his wife, Ruksana, on October 10. Her body was discovered three days later in the Gopalapura drainage area in Bengaluru.
Couple Moved to Bengaluru Six Months Ago
According to police, Irfaj and Ruksana were originally from Bihar and had married approximately a year before the incident. The couple reportedly fell in love while selling balloons in Bihar before moving to Bengaluru around six months ago.
After relocating, Irfaj found employment at a local garment factory. Ruksana had previously been married and had a child from her first marriage, according to media reports citing police.
Investigators said the couple’s relationship had deteriorated in recent months. Irfaj allegedly suspected his wife of having an extramarital relationship because she frequently spoke to someone over the phone. The suspicions reportedly led to repeated arguments.
Police Suspect Stone Attack Led to Death
According to investigators, an argument on October 10 allegedly escalated into violence when Irfaj attacked Ruksana with a stone, fatally injuring her. Police reports also stated that he allegedly put a piece of cloth in her mouth.
The accused then allegedly placed her body inside a bag and used a motorcycle to transport it to the Gopalapura drainage area, where he disposed of it. Police said the motorcycle belonged to another person and had allegedly been taken after its handle lock was broken.
Body Found After Three Days of Investigation
Ruksana’s body was recovered from the stormwater drain on October 13. Police initially struggled to establish her identity and subsequently conducted extensive inquiries, including door-to-door checks and verification of missing-person complaints.
During the investigation, local residents reportedly informed police that a woman in their neighbourhood had been missing. This information led investigators to question her husband.
Police said the accused allegedly confessed during interrogation. He has been arrested, and further investigation into the case is underway.