The police in Rajkot have arrested the third accused in the brutal murder of a 43-year-old man, the uncle of a rape survivor. Pruthvi Jadeja, a cousin of the prime accused Mahendrasinh Jadeja, was taken into custody on Wednesday. He is alleged to have provided critical information to Mahendrasinh by tracking the victim's movements, including his daily routine, vehicle model, and registration number, before the murder.
Background of the Case
The prime accused, Mahendrasinh Jadeja and Yashpalsinh Jadeja, were arrested on Sunday at the Gujarat-Rajasthan border, more than two years after a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) case was registered against them in April 2024. On the night of May 20, they allegedly killed the girl's uncle after the family refused to agree to a compromise. The victim's brother, who is the survivor's father, had reportedly informed the police about the duo's location, but the officers failed to take action.
Details of the Murder
The victim suffered nine fatal injuries from sharp-edged weapons. During interrogation, Mahendrasinh revealed that he and Pruthvi had been in regular contact for nearly a year through Instagram voice calls. Pruthvi's mobile phone has been seized and sent for forensic analysis.
Police Negligence and Suspensions
Range Inspector General Nirlipt Rai suspended four police personnel for negligence and lapses. A family member of the victim stated, 'Had the two prime accused been arrested earlier after they were booked under the Pocso, her uncle would have been alive today.'
Recoveries and Investigation
So far, the police have recovered three bladed weapons, two cars, and four mobile phones allegedly used in the crime. Pruthvi, who is engaged in farming, has no prior criminal record.
Wider Probe
The investigation has expanded to examine whether Mahendrasinh and Yashpalsinh received financial assistance while absconding. Police are questioning individuals suspected of sheltering or aiding them, as well as those who allegedly pressured the survivor's family to withdraw or settle the Pocso case.
SIM Card Procurement
Investigators are also probing how the accused managed to procure SIM cards while on the run. Rajkot Superintendent of Police Vijay Singh Gurjar said the accused allegedly used identity documents belonging to others after befriending strangers and claiming they did not possess Aadhaar cards. Police are tracing the SIM card holders across states and recording their statements.
Movement While Absconding
The accused moved through several districts while on the run, including Morbi, Kutch, and Banaskantha. Teams will visit these places for further investigation, evidence collection, and witness statements.
Community Discussions
Villages near Padadhari are abuzz with discussions about whether caste influence played a role in the duo evading arrest for 780 days. The police continue to investigate all angles.
