Tripura Police on Wednesday arrested six individuals in connection with the brutal killing of a young man, whose body was found stuffed inside a refrigerator in Gandacherra, under Dhalai district.
The chilling incident has stunned residents of the otherwise quiet locality. Also, Police officials confirmed that the murder was the result of a jealousy-fueled love triangle, and the case is now being treated as premeditated homicide.
Body Discovered in Fridge at Rented House
The gruesome discovery was made on Monday evening, after neighbors complained of a foul smell coming from a rented house in the Gandacherra Bazaar area. Upon breaking in, the police recovered the body of a youth, later identified as Rajib Debbarma (22).
Rajib, a resident of a nearby village, had been missing for over 48 hours. His family had filed a missing person report with the local police station. Sources close to the investigation said his body showed multiple injury marks. Nevertheless, he is believed to have been murdered sometime late Saturday night.
Love Triangle Turned Deadly
According to the police, Rajib had been in a romantic relationship with a woman who had recently become involved with another man. This caused tension among the trio, escalating into violence. Investigators revealed that Rajib was allegedly lured to the house, where he was attacked by the accused.
The primary suspect, Suman Das, is believed to have orchestrated the crime with the help of five associates, including two women. Moreover, their plan was allegedly to eliminate Rajib over personal rivalry stemming from the love triangle.
Senior police officials stated that the murder was carried out with extreme cruelty, and the attempt to hide the body in a refrigerator was aimed at delaying its discovery.
Swift Police Action
Speaking to reporters, Dhalai SP Ramesh Roy said the case was cracked within 48 hours, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Gandacherra Police Station and the local intelligence network. The accused were apprehended from different locations in and around the town.
“We have arrested all six suspects. Based on their confessions and forensic evidence, we have a strong case. The refrigerator was used in an attempt to conceal the crime. Further, investigation is underway,” SP Roy added.
The refrigerator, blood-stained clothes, mobile phones, and suspected murder weapons have been seized. The police have also recovered CCTV footage from a nearby store showing the accused purchasing the refrigerator days before the murder.
Locals Demand Strict Punishment Over Love Triangle
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across Gandacherra and neighboring areas. Lastly, locals gathered outside the police station demanding strict punishment for the perpetrators. Women’s groups and youth organizations have condemned the crime, calling it a “disturbing reflection of moral decline.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned in Rajib’s memory, with community leaders urging authorities to ensure speedy justice.
Government Monitoring Case Closely
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has been briefed on the matter. In a statement, the state government said it was closely monitoring the investigation and would provide legal and psychological support to the victim’s family.
The State Human Rights Commission has also taken suo moto cognizance of the incident and may initiate a parallel inquiry.
Authorities urge the public to remain calm and not spread rumors. In addition to, citizens are encouraged to report suspicious behavior to the nearest police station.
For crime updates and public advisories, visit the official Tripura Police Portal.
