Alwin Kunder’s remains returned to India as Sharjah probe continues
The remains of 51-year-old Alwin Prakash Kunder, a long-time employee at Sharjah International Airport, arrived at Mangaluru International Airport at 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2026. The casket was escorted by two company representatives before being moved to Honnanakeri, Kundapur, for funeral rites at the CSI Krupa Church.
A mysterious disappearance
Kunder, a native of the Udupi district, had worked in the UAE for 14 years. His disappearance was first noted between July 20 and July 26, 2026, after his family became suspicious of text messages he was sending. They noted that the messages deviated significantly from his usual habit of communicating via voice notes.
Following concerns that he might have left the country, his employer confirmed he had not departed the UAE, prompting a formal missing-person report. The investigation took a grim turn on August 12, when Kunder’s Toyota was discovered on a road leading toward Oman. Inside the vehicle, authorities found two bags containing his dismembered remains, which showed evidence of two stab wounds to the chest. Forensic DNA analysis was eventually used to confirm his identity.
Sharjah Police address investigation and family claims
In a statement released on Friday, September 25, 2026, Sharjah Police confirmed that the investigation remains active and has been officially referred to prosecutors. The authorities also addressed circulating rumors regarding Kunder's family members.
While media reports suggested that Kunder’s wife, Tina, and their son were missing, the police clarified that:
- Both individuals left the UAE legally.
- They are not considered missing persons.
However, the victim's brother, Anil, has disputed the sense of closure. He maintains that the family has been unable to establish any contact with Tina. Furthermore, Anil has alleged that unauthorized cash withdrawals were made from Alwin Kunder’s bank account following his death, though the specific details of these transactions have not yet been verified.
Legal hurdles for Indian authorities
As the family seeks justice, Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar noted the complexities of international law. He stated that any legal action taken in India against suspects located in the UAE would necessitate formal international procedures, such as:
- A letter rogatory
- A Red Corner notice
- Interpol proceedings
In a separate maritime incident reported on September 23, 2026, 26-year-old wiper Suraj Yadav from Uttar Pradesh died after the vessel MV Cape Dao was struck off the coast of Musandam. Nineteen other Indian crew members were rescued by the Omani navy during the incident.