From 'natural death' to murder: Nagaur Police uncover family's deadly secret

A truck driver's death initially believed to be natural has turned into a shocking murder case in Rajasthan's Nagaur district, with police alleging that the victim's wife and son killed him following a long-running domestic dispute.

Police said they cracked the "blind murder" case within 24 hours of launching an investigation and have arrested the victim's wife, while a minor son has been taken into custody under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

The incident took place in Kuharon Ki Dhani village under the Panchodi police station limits. The victim, identified as Shyam Kumar Prajapat, worked as a truck driver.

According to investigators, Shyam Kumar had been involved in frequent domestic disputes with his wife, Munni Devi. On the night of June 7-8, an argument allegedly escalated into violence, during which the accused assaulted him with sticks, causing serious injuries.

Police said the attackers then allegedly strangled him with a rope, leading to his death.

In the aftermath of the incident, family members allegedly attempted to portray the death as a natural one. However, police grew suspicious during the preliminary inquiry and launched a detailed investigation.

Given the seriousness of the case, Nagaur Superintendent of Police constituted a special team to probe the circumstances surrounding the death. Investigators examined technical and scientific evidence, including the post-mortem report, and questioned family members and other suspects.

The investigation revealed the alleged involvement of the victim's wife and sons. Police arrested Munni Devi and another accused, identified as Sukhram, while a juvenile in conflict with the law was detained.

Panchodi Station House Officer Rajmal Kumawat said the case appeared suspicious from the outset, prompting investigators to examine all possible angles. Scientific and technical evidence, along with statements gathered during the probe, pointed to the involvement of the victim's family members, he said.

Police said the post-mortem report and forensic findings confirmed that the death was a homicide and not a natural death as initially claimed.

The accused have been booked for murder and other relevant offences. Further investigation is underway to establish the exact sequence of events and determine the role of each accused in the crime.

The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents expressing disbelief over the alleged involvement of close family members in the killing.

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With inputs from Kesha Ram