Swift Action Saves Three Missing Schoolboys in Shimla: A Community Breathes a Sigh of Relief
In a heart-stopping turn of events, Shimla Police successfully located and rescued three young students from a prestigious private school within 24 hours of their disappearance. The boys, all aged 11 and studying in Class 6, were found safe in Padhli near Kokoonala, Kotkhai — a remote area in Shimla district — after an intense search operation.
The rescue mission also led to the arrest of a 45-year-old man, Sumit Sood, a resident of Shimla’s Lower Bazaar. He is currently being interrogated as authorities investigate the possibility of kidnapping. The exact circumstances that led the children to Kotkhai remain unclear, and police are speaking with the boys to piece together the events.
The alarm was first raised when a suspicious vehicle with a Delhi number plate — later suspected to be a decoy — was seen near the school, heading toward Narkanda. One of the rescued boys is reportedly related to a former Chief Minister of Haryana, adding a layer of urgency and public attention to the case.
The incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon during a school holiday, when several students went for a walk along Mall Road. Tragically, three boys from Kullu, Nangal, and Karnal failed to return, prompting immediate concern. Their families later received calls from an unknown number, sparking fears of a ransom demand — though police have not confirmed any such motive.
Himachal Pradesh, known for its serene landscapes and low crime rates, was shaken by the incident. The involvement of minors and the high-profile connection of one of the victims has raised concerns about safety in the region.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge soon. For now, the safe return of the children has brought immense relief to their families and the community.
