Crime News / Azamgarh Hostage Horror Ends in Encounter, Two Children Rescued

Azamgarh, Sep 23: A shocking hostage and murder case in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh ended after an eight‑hour police operation, with the accused killed in an encounter and two children rescued.

The accused, identified as Arvind Singh, had earlier shot dead his wife Babita Singh, two priests Mahendra Pathak and Akhilesh Mishra, and later his 10‑year‑old son during a ritual at his home.

Following the killings, Singh held three children hostage, including his own. Despite police attempts to negotiate, he refused to release them.

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As the situation escalated, Singh shot his 10‑year‑old son. Police then broke into the house and launched an encounter, killing the accused. Two children were rescued alive, though one four‑year‑old child later succumbed to injuries sustained during the ordeal.

According to investigators, Singh had been suffering from mental illness and was reportedly influenced by superstitions. Family members believed he was possessed by the spirit of his deceased elder brother.

For several days, rituals and puja had been conducted at his home, which culminated in Tuesday’s tragedy.

Senior police officials confirmed that Singh’s actions were driven by delusion and rage. ADG Naveen Arora praised the police team for their “intelligence and excellent training,” which helped save two innocent lives.

The rescued children were found dehydrated, hungry, and traumatized after being held captive for hours.

The incident has sent shockwaves across Azamgarh, with locals horrified by the brutal killings and hostage crisis. Authorities have assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted into Singh’s mental health history and the circumstances that led to the tragedy.