Nithari Killings: Allahabad HC Acquits Surendra Koli In 12 Cases

The Allahabad High Court has overturned the convictions of Surendra Koli, the prime accused in the Nithari killings case, in 12 instances where he had been sentenced to death by the trial court. Koli had previously received the death penalty in more than 10 cases related to the Nithari killings.

Moninder Singh Pandher, who was also implicated in the infamous Nithari murders in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, has been acquitted in two cases where he had been sentenced to death.

Surendra Koli and Moninder Singh Pandher were both accused and co-accused in the notorious Nithari murders, a series of heinous crimes that occurred in Noida. Koli was found guilty of sexually assaulting and murdering multiple children during the period from 2005 to 2006.

The gruesome case initially came to public attention in December 2006 when human remains were discovered in a drain near a residence in Nithari. It was alleged that Koli would entice children to the house with promises of sweets and chocolates, after which he would commit the murders, engage in acts of necrophilia, and even participate in cannibalism. He would then dispose of the victims' bones and other body parts in a ditch behind the house.

Moninder Singh Pandher, the employer of Koli, was also implicated as a co-accused in the Nithari case, facing charges of brutal murder and sexual assault.