Illicit relationship behind Itaunja murder, three held

The city police, on Thursday, arrested three people in connection with the murder of Rajesh Gautam, a resident of Itaunja, who went missing on April 3 and later his body was recovered from Sharda Canal, Barabanki. Police also recovered the cell phone and motorcycle of the deceased.

Those arrested have been identified as Poonam, a native of Barabanki, her brother Sanjay and Kishanpal, both residents of Lucknow. The body of the deceased was recovered from near Sharda Canal, Barabanki, on April 7.

“Rajesh was married but had illicit relationship with his relative Poonam, who was married to Sanjay Gautam. The relationship was the main reason behind the murder,” informed senior superintendent of police, Manzil Saini on Thursday. “Rajesh’s family members were not aware of this relationship. But Poonam’s husband Sanjay Gautam knew about it,” the SSP added.

Poonam’s brother, Sanjay was also aware of this relationship and he hatched a conspiracy with his friend Kishan Pal and Sanjay Gautam to kill Rajesh Gautam. He invited Rajesh to his Vijaypur residence, under Bakshi Ka Talab police station on April 3.

When Rajesh reached Sanjay’s house on his motorcycle, Kishan Pal and Sanjay Gautam were also present. On two motorcycles, all four of them left for a ride. Late in the night, they reached Sharda Canal, Barabanki. As the place was secluded, all three of them hacked Rajesh to death and fled away from the spot. They also left his motorcycle behind.

“It was with the help of surveillance cell that cops were able to resolve the murder mystery. During investigation, role of Poonam’s husband and her brother came under scanner,” said the SSP. Poonam was also aware of the conspiracy, she added. However, Sanjay Gautam is still absconding.

The SSP has announced a cash prize of Rs 5000 for the police team, comprising members of the surveillance team and police personnel of the Itaunja police station.