Psychological Motives and Modus Operandi in Homicide Mutilation and Dismemberment: A Comparative Analysis of Five Indian Cases (1995–2024)

Homicidal dismemberment and other postmortem body-handling practices are rare but create investigative and psychological dilemmas. We synthesise five Indian homicide cases (1995–2024) identified through a systematic review of forensic literature and reporting. Cases were coded for offender–victim relationship, motive (defensive/expressive), decision patterns, operational mode (disarticulation, transection, thermal destruction, concealment), toolmark/taphonomic indicators, and forensic modalities (anthropology, DNA, imaging, digital). Defensive practices predominated, reflecting efforts to obscure identity, waste investigative time, and reduce detection risk. Temporal patterns suggest a shift from pyrogenic destruction to joint-centred disarticulation and staggered disposal. We propose scene–motive comparison matrices to guide multidisciplinary prioritisation and strengthen evidential integrity.