Meghalaya Police Recover Second Murder Weapon in Tourist's Death Case

Investigation Update on Indore Tourist's Murder

Sohra, June 18: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Meghalaya police has successfully located the second weapon used in the murder of Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi in Sohra. This weapon, a machete with a steel handle, was recovered by personnel from the State Disaster Response Force during a reenactment of the crime at Weisawdong Falls, where Raja's dismembered body was found on June 2.

During the reenactment, the four suspects—Sonam Raghuvanshi, Raja's widow and the main accused, along with Akash Rajput, Vishal Singh Chauhan, and Anand Kurmi—disclosed that they had used two machetes to strike Raja on the head three times while he was screaming.

Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem informed the media, stating, “The first blow was delivered by Vishal alias Vicky, followed by Anand and then Akash.”

The SIT recreated the murder scene by having a Fire Brigade personnel act as Raja, while the accused demonstrated their positions during the crime.

According to Syiem, Sonam had signaled the others at the parking area (Weisawdong) to proceed with the attack. She was positioned in front of Raja, while Vishal stood to his right, Akash was behind him to the left, and Anand was also on the left.

After the initial blow, which caused Raja to fall and bleed, Sonam fled the scene due to Raja's screams. The three suspects then disposed of the body by carrying it and throwing it down a gorge.

The reenactment was recorded on video and witnessed by independent observers, with Syiem describing it as a success. While the preliminary motive appears to be a 'love triangle,' investigators are exploring other potential motives.

Syiem noted that Sonam has reiterated her involvement in the crime during the reconstruction, expressing remorse similar to other criminals. Previously, the SIT visited Mawlakhait village to trace the routes taken and identify individuals the suspects may have interacted with.

This village is located above Nongrait village, known for its iconic double-decker root bridge, where Sonam and Raja spent their honeymoon night on May 22. Investigators revealed that the three suspects had befriended Raja during their stay in Nongriat and had plotted to murder him in a secluded area on their way back.