GURGAON: A 23-year-old woman was allegedly strangled to death by her maternal cousin in Manesar, after which her body was hidden inside a bed box in her rented room, police said.
The victim, Soni, was found dead in her accommodation in Shankar Ki Dhani colony near IMT Manesar.
According to investigators, the accused covered her face with a plastic bag, concealed the body inside the storage compartment of the bed and fled the scene.
Colleague Discovered the Crime
The incident came to light after one of Soni’s female colleagues visited her room when she suddenly stopped reporting for work and failed to answer phone calls.
Police said the colleague found the room locked from outside. After entering, she noticed a foul smell and eventually discovered the body inside the bed box.
Residents then informed police authorities.
Accused Had Recently Arrived in Gurgaon
Police identified the accused as Devesh, Soni’s maternal cousin from Hardoi.
He had reportedly arrived in Gurgaon on May 6 in search of a job and rented a room near Soni’s accommodation.
Investigators said Soni had been helping him arrange interviews, though he had not yet secured employment.
Argument Allegedly Led to Murder
Police suspect the two had a heated argument on May 10 inside Soni’s rented room.
According to investigators, Devesh allegedly strangled her with a rope during the altercation.
After the killing, he allegedly attempted to conceal the crime by hiding the body before escaping.
Police and Forensic Teams Collect Evidence
Teams from IMT Manesar Police Station, the crime branch and forensic unit reached the scene and collected evidence.
Soni was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead.
Police said preliminary findings suggest the murder took place on Sunday, though the exact motive remains unclear.
Victim Worked at Local Company
Soni worked at Dhoot Transmission Private Limited near her rented accommodation.
Police said she had completed an ITI course and earned around Rs 14,000 per month.
Her parents were informed about the incident and arrived in Gurgaon on Tuesday. The autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday.
FIR Registered, Accused Absconding
An FIR has been registered under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for murder.
Police said the accused remains absconding and efforts are underway to trace and arrest him.
