What initially appeared to be a tragic fall at Pune's Lohagad Fort has now taken a dramatic turn. Investigators say a seemingly minor detail spotted in CCTV footage: a man wearing a hoodie on a sweltering 33C morning became the breakthrough that helped unravel the death of 25-year-old businessman Ketan Agarwal.
Agarwal died after falling into a valley at the popular trekking destination on June 18. The case was first registered as an accidental death. However, as investigators examined CCTV footage, call records and other evidence, suspicions began to grow.
The probe has since led to the arrest of Agarwal's fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her friend, Chetan Chaudhary. Police have booked the duo on charges of murder and criminal conspiracy, alleging that what was initially believed to be an accident was in fact a planned killing.
Family's doubts triggered a deeper probe
According to police, the investigation gained pace after Ketan's family challenged the accident theory. Family members told investigators that Ketan was an experienced trekker and unlikely to lose his footing at the location from where he fell.
Ketan had visited Lohagad Fort with Siya Goyal to celebrate her birthday. Following the incident, Siya reportedly informed police that Ketan had slipped while taking photographs near the edge.
An accidental death report was registered, but officers began reviewing CCTV footage and examining movements around the fort.
The hoodie that raised suspicion
A crucial lead emerged while investigators analysed footage from the foothills.
"When we checked the June 18 temperature, it was 33 degrees Celsius that morning. During scrutiny of CCTV footage from the foothills, we noticed a person wearing a hoodie with his head covered and also wearing headphones. This raised suspicion because such clothing was unusual considering the weather conditions," Tayade said.
Police later identified the individual as Chetan Chaudhary. Investigators allege that he left his mobile phone at home in Kondhwa in an attempt to avoid tracking. CCTV footage, call records, location data and messages eventually helped police connect the dots.
Alleged conspiracy and arrests
According to investigators, Chaudhary and Siya had known each other for about a year and were allegedly in a relationship despite her engagement to Ketan. Police claim Chaudhary reached the fort before the couple and later followed them to a secluded spot.
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"During sustained interrogation and examination of evidence, including call detail records, phone locations and messages, the accused admitted to having conspired to eliminate Ketan Agarwal," Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandeep Singh Gill said.
The probe also revealed that Ketan and Siya were set to marry in November, with preparations for a lavish wedding already underway. Police continue to investigate additional claims, including an alleged earlier attempt on Ketan's life during a previous visit to Lohagad Fort.
