Job loss revenge: Ex-driver arrested in Rajendranagar double murder of retired couple
Hyderabad: Cyberabad Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the brutal double murder of a retired couple in Rajendranagar. The accused have been identified as Mohammed Shakeel Salman, 33, a former driver for the victims, and Mohammed Mujeebuddin, 25.
The victims, Shaik Abdullah Abdul Hamid, a retired Assistant General Manager of State Bank of India, and Ummatur Rafai Rizwana, a retired lecturer, resided at Arbiz Residency in Jana Chaitanya Colony Phase-II, Upperpally, having recently moved there.
According to police, Mohammed Shakeel Salman (A-1) worked as a car driver for the deceased for two years. Eight months ago, he was terminated due to dissatisfaction with his performance. Feeling insulted and jobless, A-1 decided to kill the couple.
Mohammed Mujeebuddin (A-2) became known to A-1 through mutual friends in Medak. A-2, who had lost money in online cricket betting, had loaned A-1 Rs. 37,000, which had not been repaid.
A-1 later met A-2 and proposed a plan, falsely claiming he needed assistance to collect money owed to him by the deceased and to avoid recognition.
On June 4, 2025, A-1 and A-2 visited the deceased's former residence in Red Hills, Hyderabad, learning of their new address. That night, they went to Arbiz Residency to confirm the couple's presence.
On June 5, 2025, at approximately 5:00 PM, A-1, disguised in a burqa, and A-2, wearing a mask, returned to the apartment building. They approached the watchman, Rajesh Thapa, and asked him to inform the deceased that "Ali," a former watchman, had come to meet them. After gaining entry on this pretext, A-1 and A-2 proceeded to Flat No. 502.
Upon entering, A-1 locked the door from inside, retrieved a knife from his backpack, and attacked Shaik Abdullah Abdul Hamid (D1), inflicting severe bleeding injuries. When Ummatur Rafai Rizwana (D2) attempted to intervene, A-1 stabbed her as well. A-2 fled the scene during the attack. Both victims sustained multiple stab injuries and died at the spot. Before fleeing, A-1 stole Rs. 600 from D1's pocket.
Police seized one knife, two cell phones, and other items related to the case. The Cyberabad Commissioner of Police has commended the CCS, SOT Rajendranagar Team, and Rajendranagar Division Law & Order Team for their efforts in solving the case.
Public Awareness Instructions:
- Verify Identity: Always confirm the identity of visitors before allowing entry into your home. Utilize peepholes, intercoms, or security cameras.
- Strengthen Security: Install and maintain robust security measures such as CCTV cameras, motion-sensor lights, and secure locks on doors and windows.
- Be Cautious with Hiring: Conduct thorough background checks when hiring domestic help or drivers. Verify references and credentials through reliable sources.
- Stay Connected: Maintain regular communication with neighbors, family, or friends, especially if living alone, and inform them of any expected visitors.
- Emergency Preparedness: Keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Refrain from sharing details about your residence, travel plans, or valuables with strangers or on public platforms.
The Rajendranagar Police urge citizens to remain vigilant and prioritize personal safety. For assistance or to report concerns, contact the Rajendranagar Police Station or dial 100 for emergencies.