Minor’s Body Found in Metal Box Under Bareilly Bridge; Police Launch Multi-Agency Probe

Bareilly: Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have launched an intensive investigation after the body of a minor boy was discovered stuffed inside a metal box abandoned beneath the Nakatia River bridge in Bareilly’s Izzatnagar area, near the Delhi–Lucknow National Highway.

The grim discovery was made on Tuesday after locals noticed a foul odour coming from the locked metal container and alerted the police.

“The box was opened in the presence of the police team, and the body of a boy, approximately 8 to 10 years old, was found inside. Initial indications suggest the murder may have taken place elsewhere,” said Additional Superintendent of Police (City) Manush Parikh.

A forensic team examined the spot and collected crucial evidence. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya has constituted four specialised teams to identify the child and trace those responsible for the crime.

Inside the metal box, officers found a blanket along with packets of snacks and biscuits—details that have prompted investigators to consider the possibility that the child may have been lured before being killed. The exact cause of death will be determined following a post-mortem examination, Parikh confirmed.

Police are now analysing CCTV footage from surrounding areas and cross-checking missing-person complaints from Bareilly and neighbouring districts. Establishing the victim’s identity remains a top priority as the investigation gathers pace.

A police official also noted that the presence of certain items inside the box has led investigators to examine, though not confirm, a potential occult-related angle. Officers emphasised that this remains only a line of enquiry and no definitive conclusions have been drawn.

The case has sparked shock and concern in the region, with authorities urging anyone with information about a missing child matching the description to come forward immediately.