Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder of a 28-year-old man in UP's Kaushambi district over an illicit relationship.
According to police reports, the victim, identified as Mahendra Prajapati, also known as Chhotu, was murdered by his nephew Akash who allegedly was involved in a romantic relationship with a female family member. The murder occurred in Sikandarpur Bajha village under the Sandipan Ghat police station jurisdiction.
"The investigation revealed that the nephew killed his uncle with the help of accomplices after being reprimanded for his inappropriate relationship within the family," said a senior police official involved in the case.
The incident came to light on Friday morning when locals discovered a blood-soaked body under a tree, causing panic in the area. Police immediately arrived at the scene and began their investigation. The victim was initially identified through a pickup vehicle found near the body.
Using surveillance techniques and call detail records, authorities narrowed down their search to three suspects. After questioning the victim's family, police focused their investigation on Akash, Rohit, and another individual identified as Chhotu alias Vijay Bhartiya. All three were subsequently apprehended near Manauri Puliya.
During interrogation, Akash reportedly confessed that he had developed romantic feelings for a female family member and had previously attempted to elope with her twice, causing significant tension within the family. A village council meeting had been held to resolve the matter, during which Mahendra had severely scolded and humiliated Akash, leading to feelings of revenge.
Police investigation revealed that the accused lured the victim to an isolated location where they struck him on the head, killing him. The body was then abandoned by the roadside to make it appear as an accident.
While initial reports suggested the nephew was infatuated with his aunt (the victim's wife), a clarification from Hindi newspaper Navbharat Times indicated that the relationship was actually with the aunt's sister, adding another dimension to this tragic case.
The three accused remain in custody as the investigation continues.
