Daijiworld Media Network – Prayagraj
Prayagraj, Aug 1: A 21-year-old content creator has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj for allegedly murdering his cousin, setting the body on fire and sending fake ransom messages to mislead the victim's family in a case police say was driven by a dispute over the victim's girlfriend.
The accused, identified as Shivam Rai, allegedly killed his 20-year-old cousin, Sumit Kumar alias Sahil, who had been missing since July 23.
Police launched an investigation using CCTV footage and technical evidence after Sumit was reported missing. The search ended with the recovery of his partially burnt body, following which Shivam emerged as the prime suspect and was arrested.
During interrogation, Shivam allegedly confessed to the crime. According to police, he had become close to Sumit's girlfriend after frequently recharging her mobile phone and wanted to pursue a relationship with her.
Investigators said Shivam allegedly lured Sumit to a secluded location, fatally attacked him with a hammer and then poured petrol on the body before setting it ablaze in an attempt to destroy evidence and conceal the victim's identity.
To divert suspicion, Shivam allegedly used Sumit's mobile phone and SIM card to send Instagram messages to the victim's family, making it appear that he was still alive. He also demanded a ransom of Rs 50 lakh using Sumit's UPI ID.
Believing that Sumit had been kidnapped, the family transferred Rs 7,000 in two instalments before police uncovered the alleged murder plot.
Police said further investigation is underway to establish all aspects of the case.