Slathia orchestrated murder as revenge for Vasudev’s death: SSP Jammu
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) have made significant progress in solving the high-profile murder case of Sumit Jandial, known as Gataru, who was killed in a shooting incident near Jewel Chowk on January 21, 2025.
In a press briefing at the District Police Lines (DPL) today, SSP Jammu, Joginder Singh announced that eleven individuals, including two juveniles, have been arrested to date, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the last two suspects.
The shooting took place around 1:40 PM when unidentified assailants fired multiple rounds at Jandial, who was driving a red Thar (JK21G-0770). The attackers fled the scene after stealing a grey Scooty (JK02DL-8834). Police quickly transported the injured victim to GMC Jammu, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
SSP Jammu reported that following swift actions, senior police officials arrived at the crime scene and initiated an extensive investigation.
He mentioned that a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which he was leading, was established to solve the case, resulting in the questioning of over 30 suspects and conducting raids across Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.
The investigation revealed that the murder stemmed from an old feud between Vikas Slathia, also known as Vicky Slathia of Gurha Slathia, Samba, and the victim, Sumit Jandial of Vijaypur.
This rivalry reportedly began in 2023 when Akshay Kumar, an associate of Jandial, was murdered by Slathia’s group in Ramgarh.
During the subsequent police action, gangster Vasudev Kumar, also known as Shunnu, was killed in a shootout at GMC Kathua, where PSI Deepak Sharma lost his life, according to SSP. Seeking vengeance for Vasudev’s death, Slathia allegedly conspired to murder Jandial.
As part of this plot, Harsh Singh, alias Banta, a resident of Bikram Chowk, was approached to recruit shooters.
The assailants reportedly secured a rented room in Shastri Nagar to plan the operation and acquired weapons from outside J&K, SSP stated.
“A black Alto car (JK02AP-6546) was bought for Rs 1.05 lakh one week before the attack to conduct surveillance,” he added.
After four months of careful preparation, the assassination was carried out.
The senior police official also mentioned that law enforcement has recovered the black Alto, an i20 car (JK12C-5339) used during the incident, and the stolen Scooty.
“Currently, 11 people, comprising shooters, conspirators, and those who provided shelter, have been arrested,” stated Joginder Singh, SSP Jammu.
He clarified that two additional suspects involved in the crime remain at large while the police are diligently working to apprehend others associated with the planning and logistical support of the crime.
Authorities are also tracing financial transactions related to the incident and are making efforts to bring back the main conspirator, who is currently abroad.
In response to concerns about the prevailing climate of fear stemming from ongoing crimes, particularly thefts, SSP Jammu reassured that the Jammu and Kashmir Police remain committed to the safety of the public and will exert every effort to combat crime in the region.
Additionally, the police officer issued a stern warning to criminal elements, encouraging them to cease their activities or face severe consequences.
