Three arrested in Dhangadhi over murder linked to love triangle

Dhangadhi: Police have arrested three members of the same family in connection with the murder of a young man in Kailali. The arrests were made in the case of 20-year-old Rajkumar Rana of Gadaria, Kailari Rural Municipality-9.

Rajkumar’s body was discovered on June 24 on the banks of the Mohana River near Triveni Ghat in Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City-9.

According to DSP Yogendra Timilsina, spokesperson for the District Police Office Kailali, those arrested include 60-year-old Bamman Rana, his 58-year-old wife Bhangu Rana, and their 20-year-old daughter Geeta Rana of Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City-8. Police stated that an Indian youth involved in the incident is currently absconding.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that four individuals jointly assaulted Rajkumar, leading to his death, and later disposed of his body on the riverbank. Police said the murder appears to have been motivated by a love triangle.

Investigations indicate that Geeta Rana and an Indian youth were previously in a relationship. After disputes arose, Geeta developed a relationship with Rajkumar, and the two were reportedly preparing for marriage. However, when the Indian youth re-entered the situation, tensions escalated, ultimately resulting in a plan to kill Rajkumar.

According to police, Geeta had invited Rajkumar to her home in the evening as part of the plan. The Indian youth was also present at the time. Upon his arrival, Rajkumar was assaulted by the family members along with the Indian youth, resulting in his death at the scene.

Following the incident, the group transported Rajkumar’s body approximately one and a half kilometers from the house to the banks of the Mohana River and abandoned it there on the same night, DSP Timilsina said.

Geeta Rana fled to India after the incident but was later apprehended with the assistance of Indian police and brought back to Kailali on Wednesday morning. Further investigation into the case is ongoing. The Indian youth involved remains at large.

In the Rajkumar murder case, the district court has extended the remand period for Geeta’s parents as police continue to investigate under a charge of culpable homicide. Geeta is also scheduled to be presented before the court on Wednesday for an extension of her remand. Police have stated that efforts are underway to locate the absconding suspect.