Pune police have arrested Siya Goyal and her accomplice Chetan Chaudhary for the murder of businessman Ketan Agarwal, who was pushed off a cliff at Lohagad Fort. Investigators state Goyal researched the prior murder of Raja Raghuvanshi to refine her plan and create stronger alibis to evade detection.
How was the murder of Ketan Agarwal planned?
Police officers told NDTV that Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary pushed Ketan Agarwal off a cliff together. This joint action was necessary because Goyal lacked the strength to ensure he fell into the gorge alone.
The investigation revealed that Goyal used a mobile phone to research the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case, which occurred in Meghalaya. According to police, she studied that case to avoid similar mistakes and improve her arrangements.
Why did Siya Goyal kill Ketan Agarwal?
An officer connected to the case told NDTV the killing was a “crime of desperation.” The officer cited a combination of personal relations, societal beliefs, and a “transactional element between families” as triggers for the decision.
Investigators believe Goyal viewed the murder as the only way to escape her marriage to Agarwal. The police described the plot as a seamless shift between her inner thoughts and external reality.
How did the Pune police crack the case?
The breakthrough occurred after sustained interrogation and an “epiphany” during the investigation. Police had doubts about the “accidental death” claim because the specific spot at Lohagad Fort where Agarwal fell was not as dangerous as other areas of the trek.
Investigators had to peel through multiple layers of alibis before the accused admitted to the crime. While a police custody confession has limited evidentiary value, officers say it triggered the necessary evidence gathering.
What happens next in the investigation?
Forensic examination is currently underway for a second mobile phone seized from the Goyal residence, which police believe may provide more clues on the execution of the crime.
Both Goyal and Chaudhary are in judicial custody. While police report they have shown no remorse, an officer told NDTV that time in jail usually breaks hardened criminals and may lead to a realization of their actions.
Uma Raghuvanshi, mother of Raja Raghuvanshi, suggested that the fact Sonam Raghuvanshi is currently out on bail while the trial continues in Shillong could potentially embolden other accused persons in similar cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was involved in the murder of Ketan Agarwal?
Siya Goyal, the victim’s fiancee, and her boyfriend Chetan Chaudhary were arrested for pushing Agarwal off a cliff.
What is the connection to the Raja Raghuvanshi case?
Both victims were thrown off cliffs by their partners. Police found that Siya Goyal read news reports about the Raja Raghuvanshi murder to better plan her own crime and alibis.
Where did the crime take place?
The murder occurred during a trek at Lohagad Fort.
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