Investigation continues in Surat techie's murder
A week after 22-year-old computer engineer Nidhi Patel was found dead at her home in Godavadi village in Surat district, police are yet to identify a suspect in the case. Patel was discovered on the terrace of her residence on the morning of August 24, after her parents returned from a pilgrimage. She had been alone at home at the time.
According to police, there were no clear signs of forced entry into the house, leading investigators to suspect that the killing may have been carried out by someone familiar with the home. The back door of the house was found open, while the front door was locked from inside.
Initial investigations had pointed towards a possible robbery, with jewellery reported missing from the house and household items found scattered. However, police are examining multiple angles, including the possibility that the killer knew Patel or had information about the family's movements.
Details of the killing
Investigators said Patel was allegedly strangled using the drawstring of a pair of shorts and a mobile charger cable. She was also allegedly smothered with two plastic bags. Police have reported injuries around her private parts, raising a suspected sexual assault angle.
The circumstances of the killing have added to the mystery surrounding the case. Police have questioned neighbours, friends and workers at nearby establishments, but call-data analysis has so far not produced any significant lead.
Formation of Special Investigation Team
After the local Mandvi police failed to make a breakthrough, Surat Superintendent of Police Rajesh Gadhiya formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on August 28. The team is headed by Akshesh Engineer, assistant superintendent of police, Mandvi division. Around 60 police personnel have been assigned to the investigation, with multiple teams working on different leads.
Four days into its investigation, the SIT is yet to gather a lead, according to police. Investigators are focusing heavily on forensic and digital evidence. Fingerprints collected from the house are being examined and compared, while Patel's mobile phone, which was recovered from a water tank, has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for data extraction and technical analysis.
The absence of a CCTV network in the village has made the investigation more difficult, police said.
Community concern
The case has triggered concern within the local Koli community, with community representatives seeking a speedy investigation. Protest plans were temporarily deferred after police assured them that efforts were being intensified.