Police in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, have claimed to have solved the murder of a local property dealer, alleging that the victim's wife and her alleged lover conspired to kill him in a pre-planned crime. Both accused have been arrested and sent to judicial custody, while investigators say the evidence collected during the investigation points to a carefully executed conspiracy.
According to police, the victim, identified as Anand alias Mehboob Rajput, was found dead under suspicious circumstances. Initially, investigators examined multiple angles, including personal rivalry and financial disputes, before focusing on the victim's family and close associates.
During the investigation, police questioned several people connected to the victim and analysed mobile phone records, witness statements and other evidence. Officials said the investigation eventually revealed that the victim's wife was allegedly in a relationship with another man, and the two had been planning the murder for some time.
Police allege that on the day of the incident, the accused first mixed an intoxicating substance in a glass of milk and gave it to Anand. After he became unconscious, the two allegedly strangled him to death inside the house.
The body was later sent for a post-mortem examination, which, according to police, confirmed that the cause of death was asphyxia due to strangulation. The medical findings reportedly matched the evidence collected during the investigation.
Investigators stated that after the murder, the accused attempted to make the incident appear suspicious in order to divert attention from themselves. However, inconsistencies in their statements, combined with technical evidence and forensic findings, led police to uncover what they describe as the actual sequence of events.
During interrogation, police say both accused admitted their involvement in the crime. Based on their statements, officers recovered a motorcycle, a gold ring and a mobile phone, which are believed to be connected to the case. These items have been seized and will be presented as evidence during the legal proceedings.
Police have registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to murder and criminal conspiracy. Officials said further investigation is continuing to determine whether any other individuals had prior knowledge of or assisted in the crime.
Senior police officers stated that the case was solved through a combination of forensic evidence, post-mortem findings, electronic surveillance and sustained questioning of the suspects. Investigators emphasised that scientific evidence played a key role in establishing the sequence of events.
The incident has shocked residents of the area, with many expressing disbelief over the allegations. The case has once again highlighted how domestic disputes and alleged extramarital relationships can sometimes lead to serious criminal offences.
Both accused have been produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody. Police said the investigation remains open, and a detailed charge sheet will be filed after all forensic reports and remaining evidence are compiled.