ROLPA, Oct 19: In a deeply troubling turn of events, a man who was granted clemency by the President on Constitution Day has committed a heinous crime in Rukum within just 25 days of his release from prison.
The 33-year-old Lok Bahadur BK, also known as Lokendra, from Sani Bheri Rural Municipality-9, Rukum Paschim, was granted pardon by the President on the occasion of Constitution Day on September 20.
Lokendra was among eight individuals who were released from Rukum Jail in view of their good conduct. However, the recent turn of events paints a stark contrast to the faith placed in his release.
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According to DSP Namraj Bhattarai of Rukum West District Police Office, Lokendra is the prime suspect in the murder of 28-year-old Bhawana BK from Musikot Municipality-7 Sankh. The incident occurred on Monday, October 16, within just 25 days of his release. Bhawana was found dead in a hotel room in Musikot Municipality-1, Khalanga Bazaar, covered with a quilt. She had been killed with a sharp knife to the throat.
The preliminary investigation by the police suggests that the motive behind the murder could be connected to an extramarital affair and financial dealings. Both the husband of the deceased and the wife of the murder suspect are currently working abroad.
It has come to light that there were 124 phone conversations between the defendant and the deceased since his release. Moreover, the woman had visited him twice while he was in prison. Lokendra had displayed good behavior during his stay in prison, as confirmed by Acting Jailer Akbar Gharti. "The deceased woman used to come to see Lok Bahadur from time to time," he said.
Notably, Lokendra had been imprisoned in a polygamy case and was serving a one-year sentence imposed by the Surkhet High Court on May 23, 2019. He entered prison on February 26, 2023, and prior to his release, he had served 24 days behind bars. He was originally scheduled for release on February 2, 2024, but the President granted a pardon on the grounds that he had exhibited good behavior and had already served seven months and 12 days of his sentence. Regrettably, just 25 days after his release, he was found involved in the shocking murder.
Police have registered a homicide case against Lokendra and initiated a comprehensive investigation into this tragic incident. This case underscores the need for a thorough review of the criteria and procedures for granting pardons and clemency to ensure that individuals with violent tendencies do not return to society prematurely.
