Sat Jan 11 14:52:07 UTC 2025: **Punjab Police Arrest Serial Killer Targeting Men Who Refused to Pay for Sex**
**RUPNAGAR, Punjab, INDIA – January 11, 2025** – Punjab police have arrested Ram Saroop, alias Sodhi, 47, for the murder of 11 men across three districts. The victims, who were all allegedly involved in sexual encounters with Sodhi, were killed after refusing to pay for his services.
Sodhi’s arrest followed the murder of Maninder in August 2024. Maninder’s brother reported him missing after he failed to return home from work. He subsequently discovered his brother’s body near a highway, leading to the creation of a police sketch that eventually led to Sodhi’s identification.
During interrogation, Sodhi confessed to killing 11 men, including an ex-army man, a mechanic, and a tea seller. All the victims were allegedly strangled, often found naked or semi-naked, with some bearing queerphobic slurs written on their bodies. In most instances, Sodhi used items such as dupattas and scarves as weapons.
Despite the series of murders, only three formal FIRs had been filed, highlighting potential shortcomings in the initial police response. The police’s investigation revealed Sodhi’s modus operandi involved targeting victims via truck stops and tea stalls, often using a saffron dupatta to conceal his face. He used the victims’ own phones and wallets for personal gain.
The investigation also shed light on the vulnerabilities faced by sex workers, particularly within the transgender community, many of whom experience violence and non-payment for services. Sodhi’s wife expressed shock and distress at his actions and fears for the future of her three children.
Police utilized information gathered from truck drivers, theka (alcohol shop) owners, members of the transgender community, and sex workers to track Sodhi down, eventually arresting him after he attempted to meet a lover.
This case underscores concerns about the safety and protection of vulnerable populations, along with the need for improved investigation and reporting procedures in cases of sexual violence and murder. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 