Kashipur. Police have taken into custody Sandeep Singh, known locally as Sona, who grew up alongside former Deputy Block Chief Hardeep Singh, together with his spouse Sandeep Kaur, in connection with Hardeep’s killing. Investigators say the homicide stemmed from a protracted monetary disagreement estimated at roughly ₹30 lakh.

Complaint Sparks Investigation

On Tuesday, SSP Ajay Ganpati disclosed that on 13 September, Rajvinder Kaur of Gulzarpur filed a FIR reporting the shooting of her son, Hardeep Singh. Early probes uncovered evidence of a pending financial clash, prompting authorities to focus on Sandeep.

Evening Turned Deadly

According to police, the night of the incident began with Hardeep and Sandeep sharing a meal and drinks at a roadside dhaba. The pair later retreated to Sandeep’s residence, where they allegedly consumed illicit liquor. A heated argument over the disputed sum ensued. During the scuffle, Sandeep is accused of seizing Hardeep’s licensed firearm that lay on the table and discharging seven rounds, two of which struck Hardeep in the abdomen. The victim later succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical care.

Financial Motive Unveiled

Investigators allege that Sandeep owed Hardeep approximately ₹30 lakh. Complicating matters, Hardeep had recently bought a second‑hand bulldozer worth about ₹8 lakh in Sandeep’s name. Sandeep, a farmer who cultivates around 15 acres, and Hardeep had been inseparable since childhood.

Aftermath and Attempts to Conceal Evidence

Police claim that after the shooting, Sandeep transported the wounded Hardeep to a nearby hospital and notified the family, allegedly to create a false narrative and evade suspicion. Meanwhile, Sandeep’s wife, Sandeep Kaur, is accused of sanitising the crime scene by wiping away blood, leading to her arrest. Authorities are also scrutinising the involvement of Sandeep’s mother, who was reportedly present during the incident.

Recovery of Weapons and Vehicles

Law enforcement has recovered the licensed pistol, the spent cartridges, and the automobile used in the episode. The operation was carried out by Kotwali Kunda SHO Dhirendra Kumar, Sub‑Inspectors Saurabh Kumar, Govind Mehta, Manoj Dev, Sonu Singh, Naveen Joshi, and Assistant Sub‑Inspector Ravish Ram.