Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a significant development more than eight years after the tragic murders of Sasikala Narra, 38, and her six-year-old son Anish in New Jersey, an Indian national has been charged. The accused, Nazeer Hameed, 43, was a former coworker of Sasikala's husband, Hanu Narra, at an organization based in New Jersey. Following the killings, Hameed fled to India where he stayed until forensic evidence connected him to the brutal crime.

Crucial Evidence Unveiled

On March 23, 2017, Hanu Narra arrived home to a horrifying discovery at the Fox Meadow Apartments in Maple Shade—his wife and son had been fatally stabbed. Both victims showed defensive wounds, indicating they had fought back against the attack. Police gathered numerous blood samples at the scene, one of which was ultimately revealed not to belong to either victim or Hanu, providing a pivotal lead in this lengthy investigation.

Hameed quickly turned into a person of interest, especially given prior stalking allegations against Hanu and his proximity to the victims' home. After returning to India six months post-crime, he continued working with Cognizant Technologies, using his expertise to stay under the radar.

Technology's Pivotal Role in Unraveling the Case

Over the years, authorities sought a DNA sample from Hameed. When he declined, the US authorities secured a court order in 2024 to obtain Hameed's company laptop. A DNA sample from the device matched the unidentified blood sample collected at the scene, definitively linking Hameed to the murders. This case illustrates the crucial role digital forensics can play in resolving cold cases worldwide.

Current Proceedings and Alleged Motive

While investigators are still working to determine Hameed's true motive, early insights suggest a personal grievance against Hanu Narra. US authorities are presently coordinating with the Department of Justice for Hameed's extradition from India, allowing him to face murder charges and related offenses.

Patrick Thornton, Chief of Investigations at the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, underlined the importance of the case, stating that determination, advancements in technology, and global collaboration were essential in delivering justice for the Narra family after nearly a decade of uncertainty.

A Case with Global Implications

This case is a poignant reminder of the impact of digital evidence in contemporary criminal inquiries and the challenges of seeking justice across international borders. Families of victims often endure prolonged distress, and breakthroughs like this inspire hope that even the most persistent cold cases can eventually be resolved.
As the extradition and legal proceedings advance, the heart-wrenching story of Sasikala and Anish Narra stands testament to the relentless pursuit of justice and the innovative tools law enforcement can employ in a globally connected landscape.

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