Punjab police arrest serial killer for murdering 11 men, writing 'dhokebaaz' on one victim's back after payment disputes

Ropar police have arrested a 33-year-old man, Ram Saroop alias Sodhi, for allegedly murdering 11 men over the past 18 months. The accused, a resident of Chaura village in Garhshankar, Hoshiarpur district, reportedly targeted men after offering them lifts or engaging in sexual acts.

Alleged motives and methods

According to police, the killings were triggered by disputes, often involving victims’ refusal to pay promised amounts. Saroop confessed to the murders during interrogation, with five cases already confirmed. Investigations are ongoing to trace the remaining incidents.

“In most cases, Saroop reportedly strangled his victims with a piece of cloth, though in some instances, victims died from head injuries caused by blunt objects like bricks,” said SP Navneet Singh Mahal.


One murder gained particular attention when the accused wrote “dhokhebaz” (cheater) on the back of the deceased, a former soldier working as a security guard in Ropar.

Identified victims

Among the victims was Maninder Singh, 37, a tea server at Modra toll plaza. He was murdered on August 18, and his body was found in bushes near a petrol pump on Manali Road. Another victim, tractor repairman Mukander Singh Billa, 34, was beaten to death on April 5, with his body discovered at Panjehra Road, Barha Pind.

Further investigation underway

The police have linked Saroop to murders in Ropar, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Hoshiarpur districts. Senior superintendent of police (SSP) Gulneet Singh Khurana said, “During his interrogation, the accused admitted to carrying out killings in Fatehgarh Sahib and Hoshiarpur districts too. We have taken him on police remand to uncover the extent of his crimes.”

Saroop’s family abandoned him two years ago due to his homosexuality, and medical tests will determine if he is HIV-positive, authorities said.

The police continue their probe into the case, aiming to provide justice to the victims and their families.