By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 10: The East Khasi Hills Police has intensified its investigation into the murder of Eilang Phawa (39), focusing on the possible involvement of Kennedy Khongsit, who is already in custody in connection with the murder of a seven-year-old boy from Nongrah.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem on Friday said that police have sought custody of Khongsit in connection with the Phawa case.
Informing that the investigation is progressing steadily, Syiem said, “We are hopeful of completing the investigation within 90 days and filing the charge sheet.”
According to preliminary findings, Syiem informed that Khongsit and Phawa were known to each other and are believed to have shared a friendly relationship.
He said further interrogation during custody will help determine the exact nature of their association.
The SP further informed that it has been established that Phawa was last seen with Khongsit on March 20 and 21.
Syiem also stated that the accused has reportedly admitted to taking her to an abandoned house, which is now suspected to be the crime scene. A forensic team has already visited the location to collect evidence.
The post-mortem report is still awaited, which police say will be crucial in establishing the cause of death.
Phawa’s body, packed in a sack, was recovered earlier this week from a stream along the Nongrah-Lapalang area, nearly two weeks after she was reported missing on March 20.
Earlier, a tea stall owner had corroborated that the two were seen together at her shop between 5 pm and 5:30 pm on the day she went missing.
The shop owner claimed that Phawa appeared uneasy and wanted to leave early, but Khongsit allegedly prevented her from doing so and insisted she finish her drink.
Family members of the deceased had earlier stated that they were unaware of any connection between Phawa and Khongsit.
Police had earlier stated that Khongsit is accused of killing a seven-year-old boy on October 8, 2025, reportedly over a minor dispute, and disposing of the body in a remote location.
