Murder Investigation: Missing Woman Found Dead in West Bengal Forest

In a tragic turn of events, the decomposed body of Rabia Fakir, a 34-year-old woman missing for 23 days, was discovered in a forest on Henry Island, West Bengal. Authorities suspect foul play, leading to the arrest of her alleged lover, Zahirul Sardar. The investigation reveals a complex relationship and potential motives behind the crime. As the police continue their inquiries, Rabia's family seeks justice, demanding strict punishment for the accused. This case highlights the urgent need for addressing issues surrounding domestic relationships and safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 20, 2026, 16:06 IST

Discovery of Decomposed Body

Representational Image

Kolkata, June 20: Authorities have discovered the decomposed remains of a 34-year-old woman, Rabia Fakir, who had been missing for 23 days. Her body was found in a dense forest on Henry Island, located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, as reported by police on Saturday.

Rabia's body was recovered on Friday, and law enforcement officials suspect foul play, indicating she was murdered and buried beneath sand in the forest to hide the crime. Zahirul Sardar, her alleged lover, has been taken into custody in connection with this case.

Residing in Joynagar, which falls under the Bakultala police jurisdiction, Rabia was reportedly involved in an extramarital affair with Zahirul, who is also from the same area. Investigators noted that tensions had arisen between the two recently.

Rabia was reported missing on May 26, prompting her family to file a complaint with the Bakultala police. Following an investigation, Zahirul was arrested on June 18.

During questioning, Zahirul allegedly admitted to the crime, claiming he had taken Rabia to Bakkhali on May 26 under the guise of a seaside trip. He purportedly strangled her in a remote area of Henry Island and buried her body to eliminate evidence.

After his confession, police teams from Bakultala and Fraserganj Coastal stations accompanied Zahirul to the site on Friday, where they recovered the body. The remains have been sent to the morgue at Kakdwip Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

According to a senior officer from the Baruipur Police District, "The accused was taken to Henry Island to locate the woman's body after confessing during interrogation. The body has been sent for an autopsy, and the precise cause of death will be determined once the report is available. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain if others were involved in this incident."

Rabia's brother, Ashraf Fakir, accused Zahirul of seducing his sister before her murder and burial, demanding severe punishment for the perpetrator.