Police arrested a daughter-in-law and former domestic help for a businessman’s murder. Shalu and her husband (L) Vineet Minocha (M)
Murder of Kanpur Businessman Linked to Family Conspiracy
KANPUR: Investigators have uncovered a conspiracy involving Shalu, the daughter-in-law of murdered pharmaceutical businessman Vineet Minocha, and former domestic worker Vishal Gautam. Police allege that Shalu had been plotting the murder for approximately three months, establishing a relationship with Gautam through compliments and inquiries about his personal life.
Authorities believe Shalu hired Gautam for Rs 6 lakh, motivated by a dispute over CCTV cameras installed by Minocha in their apartment. Reports indicate that she provided Gautam with the original key to the apartment and informed him of times when she, her husband, and son would be away.
The plan involved hiding in a bedroom to suffocate Minocha, aiming to make his death appear as a heart attack. However, the investigation revealed that he was ultimately stabbed 26 times and had his throat slit.
CCTV footage and call records were instrumental in piecing together the alleged conspiracy. Gautam and an accomplice, identified as Kishore, were apprehended following an encounter on September 6. Shalu was arrested the following night and has since been placed in judicial custody. Police continue to investigate the involvement of another individual, Subrat, in the conspiracy.
Impact on Family Following Arrest
Shalu’s five-year-old son has shown signs of distress since her arrest. Reports indicate that he has become withdrawn, exhibiting poor eating habits and disrupted sleep patterns. The child frequently wakes up in fear, calling out for his mother. He also inquires with relatives about her return and the whereabouts of his grandfather.