Gujarat Forest Officer Arrested for Family Murder
In a horrifying incident, a senior Gujarat forest officer allegedly murdered his wife and two children before burying their bodies in a pit. The accused, Ramesh Patel (42), a Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Sabarkantha, committed the crime at his Himmatnagar home and attempted to hide the evidence in a nearby forested area.
How the Crime Unfolded
Neighbors alerted police after noticing suspicious activity near Patel’s residence. Authorities discovered the bodies of Priyanka Patel (38) and their two children (10-year-old daughter and 6-year-old son) in a freshly dug pit. Initial reports suggest Patel strangled his wife during an argument and smothered the children to silence them. He then transported the bodies in his official vehicle and dumped them near a forest.
Murder Motive: Financial & Marital Issues
Investigators suspect financial stress and marital discord triggered the killings. Sources confirm Patel faced:
– Heavy debt & financial mismanagement
– Frequent domestic disputes, including alleged extramarital affairs
– Signs of declining mental health & erratic behavior
Colleagues expressed shock, calling Patel a disciplined officer with no prior criminal history.
Public Outrage & Legal Action
The case has sparked nationwide anger, with demands for:
✔ Fast-track justice for the victims
✔ Stronger domestic violence protections
✔ Mental health support for stressed individuals
Patel has been charged under IPC Sections 302 (murder) and 201 (destruction of evidence). Police are investigating if the crime was premeditated.
Domestic Violence Crisis in India
This tragedy highlights India’s rising domestic violence rates:
– NCRB data shows increased cases of abuse against women & children
– Many incidents go unreported due to social stigma
– Experts urge early intervention in abusive households
Ongoing Investigation
Forensic teams are examining the crime scene, and Patel remains in custody. Authorities will present him in court soon.
Follow for updates as this case develops.
