What was initially believed to be a tragic trekking accident at Maharashtra’s Lohagad Fort has taken a dramatic turn, with investigators alleging that businessman Ketan Agarwal was murdered following multiple failed attempts on his life.
According to police, Ketan’s fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged associate Chetan Chaudhary are accused of conspiring to kill him and repeatedly searching for an opportunity before the fatal incident on June 18.
First Alleged Attempt at Lohagad Fort
Investigators claim the first attempt occurred during a visit to Lohagad Fort on May 31.
According to police, Ketan was allegedly pushed near a cliff edge but survived after managing to hold onto nearby vegetation. Authorities say the incident did not raise immediate suspicion, and no complaint was filed at the time.
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Family Intervention Prevented Another Visit
Police allege that a subsequent attempt failed on June 4 when Ketan’s family prevented him from revisiting the fort.
Investigators say concerns within the family following the earlier incident disrupted plans that had allegedly been made by the accused.
Bali Trip Cancellation Comes Under Scrutiny
During the investigation, officers also examined the cancellation of a planned pre-wedding trip to Bali.
According to police, the trip was called off after Ketan’s passport reportedly went missing. Investigators are examining allegations that the document may have been deliberately concealed to prevent the couple from travelling abroad.
Alleged Plan Abandoned Due to Crowds
Authorities say another visit to Lohagad Fort was made on June 14.
However, investigators believe the accused abandoned their plan because of heavy crowds at the popular tourist destination, making it difficult to carry out the alleged crime unnoticed.
Fatal Incident on June 18
According to police, the accused returned to Lohagad Fort on June 18 after persuading Ketan to visit the site.
Investigators allege that Chetan Chaudhary travelled separately and followed the couple before the trio reached a relatively isolated area of the fort.
Police claim Ketan was attacked and pushed into a deep gorge, resulting in his death.
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Family Raised Questions Over ‘Accident’ Theory
The case was initially treated as an accidental death after police were informed that Ketan had slipped while taking photographs.
However, family members questioned the explanation, citing his trekking experience and expressing doubts about the circumstances surrounding the fall.
Their concerns prompted a more detailed investigation, which eventually led authorities to examine the alleged relationship between the accused and reconstruct the events preceding Ketan’s death.
Investigation Continues
Police have stated that the investigation remains ongoing and that evidence, witness statements, digital records and forensic findings are being examined to establish the full sequence of events.
Authorities are expected to present further details before the court as the case progresses.
