Hyderabad, 11 June
Karima Begum, the prime accused in the sensational Moinabad double murder case, died while undergoing treatment at the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) in Hyderabad on Wednesday night, police officials confirmed.
The 42-year-old had been receiving medical treatment for the past 24 days after allegedly attempting suicide while in police custody. Hospital sources stated that her condition remained critical throughout the treatment period.
The incident had earlier sparked controversy, prompting an internal police inquiry. Following the investigation, two police constables were reportedly suspended in connection with lapses related to the incident.
As a precautionary measure following her death, police personnel were deployed at Karima Begum’s residence in Tandur town of Vikarabad district to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.
Background of the Moinabad Double Murder Case
The Moinabad double murder case attracted widespread public attention after investigators uncovered the alleged murders of two elderly women who had reportedly lent money to the accused.
One of the victims, Abida Begum (65), an Anganwadi worker from Kasimpur village in Bashirabad Mandal, was reported missing by her family in May. During the investigation, police alleged that Karima Begum lured her to a farmhouse near Moinabad under the pretext of repaying a debt.
According to investigators, Abida Begum was allegedly murdered, robbed of her gold ornaments, and buried in a secluded area near the farmhouse.
Another victim, Mahbub Begum (also referred to as Mehboobi in some reports), was allegedly killed in a similar manner earlier this year. Police claim that the accused targeted elderly women who had lent money to them and murdered them to avoid repayment while stealing their jewellery.
Alleged Murder Conspiracy
Police investigations revealed that Karima Begum, along with her husband Abdul Rehman and cousin Abdul Nayan, allegedly planned to target multiple lenders from whom they had borrowed money.
Investigators stated that the trio had accumulated debts from several individuals and allegedly intended to eliminate lenders to escape repayment obligations. Authorities believe the accused may have planned attacks on as many as eight lenders who had collectively lent them approximately ₹2 lakh.
Police said the victims were allegedly invited to a farmhouse with promises that outstanding debts ranging between ₹20,000 and ₹25,000 would be repaid. Once there, they were allegedly murdered and buried on the property.
Investigation Continues
The case came to light after family members of the victims reported them missing. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of Karima Begum, Abdul Rehman, Abdul Nayan, and other suspects connected to the case.
Following Karima Begum’s death, police officials stated that all necessary legal formalities are being carried out. Authorities also confirmed that the investigation remains active as officers continue examining whether any additional crimes may be linked to the accused.
Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.