A significant development has emerged in the death case of Aqeel Akhtar, son of former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa and ex-Cabinet Minister Razia Sultana. Panchkula Police have registered a murder case, naming key family members, including the former DGP, his wife Razia Sultana, Aqeel's wife, and sister, under Section 103(1) of the BNS. Aqeel Akhtar's body was found at his Panchkula residence on October 16.
Initial Police Response
Panchkula DCP Srishti Gupta stated that the family themselves had informed the police about Aqeel Akhtar's death on October 16. Following an initial investigation that revealed no suspicious circumstances, the body was handed over to the family after a post-mortem examination for cremation.
Turning Point in the Investigation
The case took a dramatic turn when certain videos surfaced on social media. According to DCP Srishti Gupta, these videos were recorded by the deceased, Aqeel, before his death, in which he spoke of personal disputes and threats to his life, while On top of that, a complaint was filed by Shamsuddin, a resident of Malerkotla and reportedly close to the Mustafa family, on October 17, citing suspicious circumstances. Based on these social media posts and the formal complaint, an FIR was registered on October 17.
SIT Formation and Assurance of Fair Probe
To ensure a fair, transparent, and evidence-based investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted under the supervision of an ACP-rank officer. The SIT is tasked with thoroughly investigating every aspect of the case. DCP Gupta has assured that the investigation will be conducted with complete impartiality and an open mind, ensuring that no culprit is spared and no innocent person faces injustice. The police are fully committed to the principles of transparency and justice in this matter.
