Pune: Demonstrating that "the law has long arms," the Walchandnagar Police of Pune district solved a murder case using evidence from charred remains and bone fragments found at a crematorium in Tavshi (Indapur), despite the initial lack of leads.
In a meticulous investigation likened by villagers to scenes from a movie, police traced the ashes, wood, and fragments, leading to the arrest of Dadasaheb Maruti Harihar (30) and Vishal Sadashiv Khilare (23) from Golki, Phaltan, Satara district. The two had murdered Haribhau Dhuraji Jagtap (74) from Gangakhed, Parbhani district.
The investigation began on November 16, when villagers reported suspicious smoke at the Tavshi crematorium. Upon arrival, the police discovered bones, ashes, and embers but initially could not determine if the bones were human.
Sifting through the ashes, officers found a dental cap and a set of keys. Bloodstains near the site raised further suspicion of foul play. The police investigation focused on the crematorium’s partially burned logs and leftover wood.
While investigating, officers received information from a local sawmill that Harihar and Khilare had obtained wood on November 15, ostensibly for a cremation. The police detained the two suspects, who initially denied involvement.
Under questioning, however, they admitted to murdering Jagtap. Guided by Pune District Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh, Additional Superintendent Ganesh Birajdar, Sub-Divisional Officer Dr. Sudarshan Rathod, and Crime Branch Inspector Avinash Shilimkar, the team, including Assistant Police Inspector Rajkumar Dunge, connected the pieces and successfully closed the case.
Motive Behind the Murder
According to police, the murder stemmed from personal animosity. Jagtap and Harihar were acquaintances, but an incident on November 12 created enmity between them when Jagtap allegedly harassed Harihar’s wife during a visit.
Angered, Harihar devised a plan to kill Jagtap. On November 14, he convinced Jagtap to accompany him to the Satoba pilgrimage in Maan taluka. On November 15, Harihar and Khilare took Jagtap to Tavshi under the pretense of dropping him off in Baramati.
At the crematorium, they assaulted him with a log, killing him, and burned his body before fleeing. The police arrested them within two days using evidence found at the site.
Commendation for Police Efforts
Pune District Superintendent Pankaj Deshmukh congratulated Assistant Police Inspector Rajkumar Dunge and the Walchandnagar Police for their exceptional work.
Despite the lack of evidence and their involvement in election duties, the officers' efforts led to a breakthrough in the case, showcasing their dedication to upholding justice.