The body of a 22-year-old man who had gone missing last month was recovered on Saturday from Nallah Bishlari near Kraalna Digdool in Ramban district after a nearly 20-day search, officials said.
The deceased was identified as Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, son of Abdul Salam Chopan of Mundkhal Pogal. The body, found in a decomposed condition, was shifted to a hospital for medico-legal formalities.
Tanveer had been missing since April 12. Reports indicate he allegedly jumped into a stream near Makarkoot along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway while trying to escape from suspected cow vigilantes who had intercepted him.
He was travelling from Jammu with a milch cow and two calves when he was allegedly chased by a group in two vehicles near Digdool, leading to his disappearance.
A large-scale search operation involving Jammu and Kashmir Police, the National Disaster Response Force, Army Quick Reaction Teams, NGOs and local volunteers continued for nearly three weeks before the body was located.
Police have registered a case and arrested four accused — Surjeet Singh, Sandeep Singh, Digvijay Singh and Keval Singh — all residents of Ramban and adjoining Seri areas.
An SIT headed by SDPO Banihal Surinder Singh Biloria is investigating the case. Family members have alleged that the chase and harassment led to Tanveer’s death and have demanded strict action.
