Poonch Police Arrest Long-Time Absconder After 13-Year Manhunt

Poonch | January 16, 2026 — In a major breakthrough for law enforcement, the District Police Poonch has successfully apprehended a notorious absconder who had managed to evade arrest for over a decade. The individual, identified as Mohd Arshad, son of Faiz Hussain and a resident of Mahra, Tehsil Surankote, was taken into custody after a persistent 13-year pursuit.

Arshad had been on the run since 2013, when he was named in a criminal case involving physical assault and wrongful restraint.The accused was originally wanted in connection with FIR No. 65/2013, registered under Sections 341 and 323 of the RPC at the Surankote Police Station. Despite numerous attempts to locate him over the years, Arshad had successfully hidden from the authorities until a specialized police team, acting on fresh credible intelligence and sustained field surveillance, traced his whereabouts.

Following his arrest and the completion of necessary legal formalities, the police produced him before the Honorable Court to face trial.This arrest highlights the unwavering commitment of the Poonch Police to clear the backlog of long-standing criminal cases and ensure that no offender remains beyond the reach of the law.

The district administration has reiterated its stance that criminals cannot evade justice indefinitely and has called upon the public to continue their cooperation. Local residents are encouraged to share any information regarding suspicious activities or the location of other wanted persons to help maintain peace and order in the region.