Raipur Police have solved the murder of a woman whose blood-stained body was found near the Mahanadi riverbank cremation ground in Paragaon village under the Arang police station limits. Investigators have arrested the woman's alleged lover, who reportedly killed her after suspecting her of being involved with another man.

The accused, identified as Sonu Sardar alias Avtar Singh (37), was arrested from Raipur and has been sent to judicial custody. Police said the case was cracked within 48 hours of the recovery of the body.

Body Found Near Mahanadi Riverbank

According to police, the body of Rukmani Sonwani was discovered on July 13, 2026, near the cremation ground on the banks of the Mahanadi River. The victim had multiple injury marks on her thighs, hips, hands and legs, indicating a violent assault.

Given the nature of the crime, a special investigation team was formed immediately to identify the culprit and establish the circumstances surrounding the murder.

Long-Term Relationship Came Under Scanner

During the investigation, police found that Rukmani had been in a relationship for the past six to seven years with Sonu Sardar, originally from Punjab and currently residing in Mudhipar village under Pithora police station limits.

Investigators examined technical evidence and gathered local intelligence, which eventually led them to the accused.

Murder Triggered by Suspicion, Police Say

According to the police investigation, the incident took place on the night of July 12. Officers said the accused allegedly saw Rukmani in the company of another man around 9:30 pm.

Police claim that this led to an argument, during which the accused suspected the woman of being involved in another relationship. The confrontation reportedly escalated into violence, and he allegedly assaulted her with a sharp-edged metal bangle-like object and physical blows, resulting in her death.

It is important to note that the allegation regarding an affair is based on the accused's statement and the police investigation. It has not been independently verified in court.

Body Dumped Near Cremation Ground

After the alleged murder, the accused is said to have transported the body and abandoned it near the cremation ground along the Mahanadi riverbank before fleeing the area.

Police tracked him down using technical surveillance and information gathered from informants. Following his detention, he allegedly confessed to the crime during questioning.

Case Registered Under BNS

Police have registered a case under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with the offence of murder.

The accused was produced before a court on July 15, following which he was remanded to judicial custody and sent to Central Jail, Raipur.

Officials said further investigation is continuing to establish all circumstances related to the case and to strengthen the prosecution with forensic and other supporting evidence.

Crime Raises Concerns Over Violence in Relationships

The case has once again highlighted concerns over violent crimes arising from personal disputes and possessive behaviour in relationships. Law enforcement agencies continue to stress the importance of resolving conflicts through legal and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence.