A 28-year-old rugby player was arrested on August 2 for his alleged involvement in the triple murders at Mianwali Nagar in April, the police said on Wednesday. He was sent to judicial custody for interrogation after the arrest.
Tip-off
Parmeet Dabas alias Bhanja claims to have represented India in rugby matches against Pakistan (2005), Sri Lanka (2006) and Uzbekistan (2015). There was a bounty of ₹1 lakh for information leading to his arrest. Parmeet was arrested following a tip-off about his arrival near the main gate of Sanjay Van at Aruna Asaf Ali Road.
“We recovered a pistol and two live cartridges from his person,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Pramod Singh Kushwah.
Explaining Parmeet’s role in the murder, the police said the accused has procured fake SIM cards and other identification documents for the team formed by prime accused Sonu Dariyapur to eliminate his cousin’s husband Monu Dariyapur.
“Parmeet got six SIM cards using fake IDs and also arranged for the team’s accommodation at Nihal Vihar. He tracked Monu’s movements for four days before finally informing the shooters about his location on April 30, the day he was killed,” said the officer.
Medical bills
On how the former player came in contact with the gangster, the police said Parmeet had taken a huge loan to undergo pancreatic surgery in 2016 and was finding it difficult to repay the amount.
“He has a relative in Kanjhawala village, the same village Sonu belongs to. That’s how he met the gangster. Sonu, who Parmeet addresses as mama , offered to help him. Parmeet agreed to help him kill Monu,” said Mr. Kushwah.
Jail stint
The police said Parmeet had spent three years in jail in connection with a 2007 murder case due to his friendship with Sandeep alias Chawalia.
In April, Sonu and others allegedly murdered Monu, his friend Arun and his personal security officer Assistant Sub-Inspector Vijay Kumar. The police have arrested seven persons in connection with the case, including Parmeet, while Sonu and Vijay Lamba are still absconding.
