Karnataka Shocker: 19-Year-Old Zakiya Killed by Relative She Was Supposed to Marry

Dharwad, Karnataka | January 22, 2026 | DeccanLive.com

Dharwad rural police have solved the murder case of 19-year-old Zakiya Mulla, whose body was found on the outskirts of Dharwad. In a shocking turn of events, police revealed that the man who was supposed to marry her committed the crime.

The accused has been identified as Sabir Mulla, a relative of the victim. Police said he killed Zakiya by strangling her with her veil following a heated argument related to their marriage.

What happened?

Zakiya Mulla, a resident of Gandhi Chowk in Dharwad, had completed her paramedical studies and was looking for a job. On the evening of January 20, she left her house saying she was going to a laboratory for work. However, she did not return home that night.

The next morning, her body was found near a dairy on Mansur Road, on the outskirts of the city. Initially, police suspected that she might have been killed elsewhere and her body dumped at the spot.

Accused himself informed police

One of the most shocking details in the case is that Sabir Mulla himself called the District Superintendent of Police and informed him about the murder. He was also present at the spot when police arrived and acted as if he knew nothing about the crime.

However, police became suspicious of his behaviour. After taking him into custody and questioning him, he confessed to the murder, and the truth came out.

Reason behind the murder

According to the initial police investigation, Zakiya and Sabir were relatives, and their families were discussing their marriage. On the evening of January 20, the two went out together. During this time, an argument broke out over marriage-related issues.

As the argument turned violent, Sabir lost his temper and killed Zakiya by strangling her with her veil, police said.

Further investigation continues

Police have arrested Sabir Mulla and are also questioning another young man to check whether anyone else helped him in committing the crime. After the post-mortem examination, Zakiya’s body was handed over to her family.

A case has been registered at the Dharwad Rural Police Station, and further investigation is ongoing. The incident has created fear among locals, and many have expressed shock that a man who was supposed to marry the victim took her life.