Unveiling a Perfect Crime: How Pune Police Solved a Chilling Murder in 72 Hours

In a story that could rival any gripping crime thriller, Pune rural police unraveled a meticulously planned murder in just 72 hours, bringing two suspects to justice. The case involved the brutal killing of 74-year-old Haribhau Jagtap, a retired Army officer and resident of Parbhani, whose life ended tragically at the hands of two conspirators. What began as a nearly perfect crime, hidden under ashes, quickly unraveled thanks to the relentless pursuit of the police and a few critical clues.

Jagtap’s death was not a random act of violence but a premeditated murder fueled by anger and betrayal. The investigation revealed that the two accused, Dadasaheb Harihar (30) and his friend Vishal Khilare (23), both residents of Faltan in Satara, executed the crime in retaliation. Harihar’s wife had allegedly been sexually harassed by Jagtap during Diwali, and this led Harihar to plot revenge with the help of his accomplice, Khilare.

The crime scene was the crematorium in Tawshi village, Indapur taluka—a remote area without CCTV surveillance. On November 15, police were alerted about a body being burned at the crematorium without any mourners present. When they arrived, they found the body reduced to ashes, leaving few traces. Bloodstains on the floor hinted at foul play, but with no visible identification of the victim, the case posed immense challenges.

The breakthrough came from an unlikely source: firewood sticks. Despite the lack of technical evidence or reliable informant tips, the investigative team discovered that the firewood used in the cremation had been purchased locally. Tracing this lead, officers visited 36 timber shops across the area, finally locating a shopkeeper in Faltan who confirmed the sale of the firewood to the two suspects.

The police pieced together the chain of events. On the night of the murder, the suspects had lured Jagtap out under the guise of a dinner outing, promising to drop him at Baramati bus stand. Instead, they stopped at the crematorium around 9:30 p.m., where they attacked Jagtap with wooden sticks, killing him instantly. They then burned his body to destroy evidence.

Even with the body obliterated, small but crucial findings—a dental clip, a bunch of keys, and the firewood trail—helped investigators connect the dots. The suspects were arrested on November 18, ending the short-lived mystery of the crime.

The investigation team, led by Assistant Police Inspectors Kuldeep Sankpal, Rajukumar Dunage, and Balasaheb Karande, demonstrated extraordinary perseverance and skill in solving this complex case. Their efforts underscore the importance of methodical investigation and attention to the smallest of clues in the pursuit of justice.

What initially seemed like a perfect crime was undone by the relentless determination of the police, ensuring that a heinous act did not go unpunished. This chilling tale serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked rage and betrayal, leaving behind a legacy of loss and justice served.