Srinagar, July 18 -- The victim, Zahid Ahmad Banday, was killed in his home in Qazigund area when the accused, Naseer Ahmad Sheikh-dressed in a forces' uniform and armed with a pistol, dagger, and walkie-talkie-stormed the residence late Thursday night.

According to police and eyewitnesses, Sheikh claimed the area was under a cordon due to militant movement and ordered the family to surrender their phones. "It all looked real. These operations are routine here, so no one doubted him," a relative said.

However, Zahid became suspicious when the intruder began searching cupboards and personal belongings. As he confronted him, Sheikh reportedly attacked Zahid with a sharp weapon, fatally injuring him. Attempting to flee, the accused jumped ...