JHANSI, UTTAR PRADESH—A 62-year-old retired railway employee, Ram Singh, has been arrested following a week-long hunt for allegedly murdering his live-in partner, Preeti (32), and attempting to dispose of her remains in a metal trunk. The case, which came to light late Saturday night, January 17, 2026, has shocked the Sipri Bazar area due to the extreme measures taken to destroy evidence.
1. The Arrest and Timeline of Events
While initial reports on Sunday stated the accused was on the run, Jhansi Police confirmed late Sunday evening that Ram Singh has been taken into custody.
- The Murder: Investigations suggest the victim was killed on January 8, 2026, inside a rented house in Lehar Gaon.
- The Disposal Method: Singh allegedly wrapped the body in tarpaulin for several days before placing it inside a large blue metal trunk. He then used coal, wood, and a clay stove to burn the body until it was reduced to ashes and small bone fragments.
- The Tip-off: On Saturday night, Singh hired a loader for ₹400 to transport the trunk. The driver grew suspicious when he noticed liquid leaking from the box and Singh suddenly disappeared midway through the journey. The driver immediately called the police.
2. A Complex Personal Web
The investigation into Singh’s background revealed a complicated personal life that fueled the crime.
- Marital Status: Singh has two wives, both named Gita, living in different parts of Jhansi.
- The Victim: Preeti was a married woman who had been in a relationship with Singh for nearly ten years. Singh had rented a separate house specifically for her.
- The Motive: According to Singh’s second wife, he was frustrated by Preeti’s frequent financial demands, which led to a fatal argument a week ago.
3. Family Involvement and Forensic Findings
Police have widened the net of accountability, suspecting that Singh did not act alone.
- Son’s Role: Singh’s 16-year-old son is suspected of helping his father burn the body and arrange for the loader to dispose of the trunk. He has been taken into custody for questioning.
- Forensic Evidence: At the rented house, forensic teams found a clay stove, wood, and charcoal matching the materials found inside the blue trunk. The bone fragments have been sent for a post-mortem and DNA examination to confirm the victim’s identity.
Case Summary: Jhansi “Blue Trunk” Murder
| Detail | Information |
| Accused | Ram Singh (62), Retired Railway Employee |
| Victim | Preeti (32) |
| Location of Crime | Lehar Gaon, Sipri Bazar, Jhansi |
| Key Evidence | Blue metal trunk, charcoal, burnt bone fragments |
| Status | Main accused arrested; son in custody |

