Indian Airport Worker Murdered in Sharjah: Remains Returned to India
The mortal remains of 51-year-old Alwin Prakash Kunder, an Indian national who had worked at Sharjah Airport for 14 years, were returned to his hometown in Kundapur, Udupi district, Karnataka, via Mangaluru International Airport at 3:30 a.m. on Thursday.
The arrival of the body marks a tragic milestone for a family that has been searching for answers since Kunder was reported missing earlier this year.
A Gruesome Discovery
The investigation into Kunder's disappearance began after he last contacted his family on July 20. Suspicion arose when the family received text messages claiming he was ill, which was highly unusual as Kunder typically communicated exclusively through voice notes. Initial attempts to locate him were met with misinformation; a classmate attempting to search Kunder's Sharjah accommodation was reportedly turned away by a watchman and HR staff who claimed he had already returned to India. However, passport records eventually confirmed he had never left the UAE.
The true nature of his disappearance was revealed on July 30, when Sharjah Police discovered Kunder's body. His remains had been dismembered into nine pieces and placed in two bags inside the trunk of his Toyota vehicle, which was found on a road leading toward the Oman border. Forensic DNA analysis, supported by a relative, officially confirmed his identity on August 15.
Investigation and Legal Status
The victim was reportedly stabbed in the chest. While a death certificate has been issued, the family stated they have not yet received a First Information Report (FIR). According to reports, Sharjah Police have initiated criminal proceedings, and suspects are currently under investigation by the Public Prosecution.
Authorities have also moved to clarify rumors regarding Kunder's wife, Tina, and their son. Officials confirmed that they departed the UAE for India on July 26 of their own volition and are not currently named as suspects in the investigation.
Family Seeking Justice
Beyond the physical violence, the family has reported further complications, including unauthorized withdrawals made from Kunder's bank account following his death. As the family held prayers in Kundapur, they noted that a face viewing was not possible due to the condition of the remains.
In India, Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar explained that local police lack the legal jurisdiction to conduct a direct investigation without official documentation, such as a letter rogatory or an Interpol notice. However, he confirmed that local authorities are coordinating with the Indian Consulate in Dubai. Local MP Kota Srinivas Poojary assisted with the logistical arrangements at the airport as the family continues to call for legal accountability for