16-year-old in Haryana accused of 20 robberies, brutally kills 9-year-old neighbour to conceal theft

CHANDIGARH: Police say that the 16-year-old who brutally killed a neighbor girl in Haryana has committed around 20 robberies this year alone. Meanwhile, the 16-year-old was shifted to a juvenile home. The police had discussed with legal experts whether the minor should be prosecuted as the murder was a well-planned one. A 9-year-old girl was killed on July 1 in Gurugram to prevent her from revealing the details of the theft.

The girl's mother and brother had reached the boy's house. Meanwhile, the 16-year-old went to the girl's house on the pretext of studying. He then asked the girl for water to drink. This time he opened the cupboard and tried to steal the jewellery. But the girl found it.

The 16-year-old threatened him not to speak out. But when the girl was not ready, they tied the shawl around her neck and killed her. The camphor in the pooja room was burnt on the dead body to destroy the evidence including fingerprints. When the girl's mother returned, she found the 16-year-old sitting near the body.

The mother was told that some people broke into the house and after stopping the robbery attempt, attacked her and killed the girl. But when the police took him into custody and interrogated him, he confessed to the crime. He also confessed to the crime before the Juvenile Justice Board. However, it is not certain whether he tried to sexually harass the girl.

Officials say further questioning is needed. The police said that the theft was to settle the financial obligations incurred through gambling. It will also be checked if the accused was using drugs.

At the same time, the father clarified that he will not try to get legal help for his son or save him from the case. They said that they will not appoint a lawyer for their son who has caused them shame.