Ketan Agarwal murder case continues to reveal new layers as investigators now focus on an alleged financial trail linked to the crime. Police claim that nearly ₹1 crore given by Pune-based realtor Ketan Agarwal to his fiancée Siya Goyal for wedding expenses was allegedly diverted to co-accused Chetan Chaudhary instead of being used for the upcoming marriage. The development comes as authorities tighten their investigation into what they believe was a carefully planned murder at Lohagad Fort earlier this month.
Police probe alleged diversion of wedding funds
According to News 18, Ketan had entrusted Siya with close to ₹1 crore to make arrangements for their wedding scheduled later this year. However, police sources claim the money never reached vendors or organisers.
Instead, investigators suspect the amount was transferred to Chetan Chaudhary, who allegedly intended to use it to establish himself financially before beginning a new life with Siya. Officials believe the financial transactions form an important part of the conspiracy and are examining banking records and digital evidence to establish the flow of funds.
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Three-year plan after Ketan's death
According to News 18, police have also claimed the accused had discussed life after the murder well in advance. Investigators believe Siya and Chetan planned to remain apart for nearly three years following Ketan's death to avoid suspicion while public attention surrounding the case faded.
According to officials, the couple allegedly intended to marry only after Chetan had become financially secure and after receiving the approval of Siya's family. Investigators say this long-term planning supports their theory that the murder was not impulsive but meticulously organised over several weeks.
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Fresh evidence strengthens conspiracy angle
According to News 18, authorities allege the murder was executed using a pre-decided signal during the trek to Lohagad Fort. Police claim Siya was instructed to sit down on the pretext of drinking water or tying her shoelaces, signalling Chetan to push Ketan into the gorge while ensuring she remained at a safe distance.
The investigation has also uncovered a phone call made by Siya to Chetan around 34 minutes before Ketan's death, which police suspect was used for final coordination. Officials have further seized the scooter allegedly used by Chetan to travel nearly 90 kilometres from Pune to Lohagad Fort, believing he chose the two-wheeler over a car to avoid leaving toll plaza records.
Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary remain in police custody as investigators continue examining financial transactions, digital communications and forensic evidence to establish the full sequence of events behind Ketan Agarwal's death.