In a shocking murder case that has gripped Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, police have uncovered disturbing details in the killing of Saurabh Rajput, a former Merchant Navy officer, allegedly by his wife Muskaan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla. The investigation has ruled out any link to black magic, instead highlighting a premeditated murder driven by betrayal, addiction, and financial tensions.
Affair, divorce talks and prior attempt
Muskaan and Saurabh, who had a love marriage in 2016, reportedly saw their relationship deteriorate within a few years. According to Ayush Vikram Singh, Superintendent of Police, Meerut City, Saurabh discovered his wife’s affair with Sahil back in 2021. Their landlord had informed him after witnessing the two in a compromising situation.
Muskaan admitted that her extramarital affair with Sahil began in 2019. Although Saurabh had filed for divorce in 2021, his family persuaded him to reconcile. Despite this, tensions persisted. Muskaan alleged that Sahil was an alcoholic and in financial distress, often relying on her family for support.
The police revealed that an earlier attempt to kill Saurabh had failed on February 25, just a day after he returned from London, where he worked at a bakery since 2023. The accused eventually executed their plan on March 3.
Murder and cover-up
Saurabh’s dismembered body was found in a drum sealed with cement on March 4. Muskaan and Sahil had fled to Himachal Pradesh following the crime, only to be apprehended upon their return. During questioning, they confessed to the murder, and the weapon used in the crime was recovered.
The drum containing the remains had initially raised suspicions of black magic due to the gruesome nature of the crime. However, SP Ayush Vikram Singh clarified that the investigation found no evidence of occult practices, emphasizing it was a well-planned act.
Financial angle under scrutiny
Muskaan claimed that Saurabh had around Rs 6 lakh in his bank account and transferred Rs 1 lakh to her and Rs 1.5 lakh to his mother shortly before his death. These transactions are being verified by investigators, along with allegations from Saurabh’s family that his in-laws used his funds to purchase property and expensive gadgets.
The police are also examining Saurabh’s past overseas employment records and educational background as part of the ongoing probe.
Discovery and daughter’s chilling words
The murder came to light when the landlord, attempting to vacate the rented house, noticed a foul smell emanating from a heavy drum. Muskaan had told them it was filled with junk and left for her parents’ house. After her mother confronted her, she confessed and was reported to the police.
In a haunting twist, Saurabh’s six-year-old daughter had been telling neighbours, “Papa is in the drum,” indicating she may have witnessed or been aware of the crime.
Two police teams have been formed to collect additional evidence, including details from the couple’s time in Himachal Pradesh. Phones have been sent for forensic examination, and investigators are working to file a strong chargesheet to ensure stringent punishment.