Post by : Meena Ariff

US law enforcement is intensifying its pursuit of Nazeer Hameed, a 38-year-old Indian citizen, wanted for his alleged involvement in the tragic 2017 murders of Sasikala Narra and her six-year-old son, Anish, in New Jersey. The FBI has announced a reward of up to USD 50,000 for any information leading to his apprehension or conviction, and Hameed's details have been included on their Most Wanted list.

He faces two counts of first-degree murder and additional firearm-related charges. Investigators report that Hameed fled to India approximately six months after the incident and has since evaded extradition requests.

Authorities discovered the victims in their Maple Shade apartment on March 23, 2017, with autopsy findings indicating severe injuries to both, including deep cuts to the neck; the child showed signs of a violent struggle, a scene described by first responders as horrifying.

The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that Hameed resided in the same apartment complex as the victims and was employed at an IT firm with Sasikala's husband, Hanumanth Narra. Further investigations revealed that Hameed had reportedly been stalking Hanumanth, solidifying his status as a prime suspect.

The lengthy case has faced various challenges, especially in gathering DNA evidence and advancing extradition procedures. A blood sample found at the crime scene that didn’t belong to either victim matched Hameed’s DNA profile; however, attempts to obtain a DNA sample through Indian authorities have stalled. Hameed declined to provide a DNA sample when approached by the Central Bureau of Investigation in 2020.

A Mutual Legal Assistance request made in 2023, confirmed by India's Ministry of Home Affairs, remains unresolved. Investigators eventually obtained Hameed's DNA through his workplace, connecting him to the crime scene evidence.

Recently, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy contacted Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, appealing for the Government of India’s cooperation in the extradition process. Murphy underscored the devastating impact of the crime on the state, asserting the necessity for swift justice.

Local officials reiterated their unwavering commitment to the victims, with reminders of Sasikala and Anish’s images remaining in the detective bureau to honor the pursuit of justice.

Prosecutors now assert the presence of compelling physical evidence linking Hameed to the murders, stating that no international border should protect a suspect from accountability. Both nations are urged to expedite the extradition proceedings.

Members of New Jersey’s Indian community, along with the Indian Cultural Centre of Southern New Jersey, have consistently supported the ongoing investigation, hopeful for justice for the victims' family.

#Global News