Pune: What initially appeared to be a tragic trekking accident at Lohagad Fort near Pune has now emerged as an alleged murder conspiracy, with investigators crediting a seemingly minor detail in CCTV footage for helping crack the case. A man wearing a hoodie in sweltering summer heat became the first clue that led police to uncover the alleged involvement of the victim’s fiancée and her suspected lover.

The victim, Ketan Agarwal, died on June 18 after falling into a gorge at the historic Lohagad Fort. In the immediate aftermath, the incident was treated as an accidental fall during a trek. However, a detailed investigation by Pune Police uncovered evidence suggesting that the death was allegedly a planned murder carried out by Ketan’s fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Choudhary.

The case has since attracted widespread attention due to the alleged love triangle, extensive digital evidence and the unusual clue that first alerted investigators to possible foul play.

CCTV footage raised initial suspicion

According to police, CCTV footage from the area showed Ketan and Siya walking together on the trekking route towards Lohagad Fort. A third individual was seen following them at a distance of approximately 20 to 30 feet.

Investigators noticed that the man was dressed in shorts but was also wearing a hoodie that covered much of his face. He was additionally seen wearing a headset over the hoodie.

What immediately stood out to investigators was the weather. Officials said the temperature in the region at the time was around 33 degrees Celsius. The choice of clothing appeared unusual for someone hiking in such conditions.

Police began questioning why an individual would wear a hoodie while trekking in extreme heat. This observation prompted a closer examination of the footage and eventually became a critical lead in the investigation.

In another CCTV clip, investigators reportedly noticed Siya suddenly looking back towards the hooded individual. The man then allegedly sat down immediately, behaviour that police considered suspicious.

Technical analysis linked suspects

Following the CCTV discovery, investigators carried out technical analysis of mobile phone records and digital communications.

Police said the examination revealed a close connection between Siya and Chetan Choudhary. Investigators allegedly found evidence suggesting frequent communication between the two over several months.

According to officials, the pair exchanged more than 2,000 phone calls over a seven-month period. The combined duration of these conversations reportedly exceeded 238 hours.

Police also compared photographs and social media profiles associated with Chetan to the individual seen in the CCTV footage. This exercise allegedly helped identify the hooded man as Chetan.

Investigators believe the evidence pointed towards a pre-planned conspiracy rather than an accidental death.

Relationship angle emerges during probe

The investigation also focused on the personal relationships of those involved.

Police said Ketan and Siya became engaged in February and were preparing for a high-profile wedding scheduled for November. Reports indicate that extensive arrangements had already begun for the ceremony.

However, investigators learned that Siya had allegedly expressed reservations about the marriage. During questioning, Ketan’s uncle reportedly informed police that Siya had previously asked whether the wedding could be postponed by a year.

The probe further revealed that Siya and Chetan allegedly developed a relationship after meeting at a Diwali party in 2025.

While Siya reportedly operated a bakery business, Chetan managed a dry fruit business. Investigators believe their relationship began even as wedding preparations between Siya and Ketan were progressing.

Alleged murder conspiracy

According to police, Chetan viewed Ketan as an obstacle to his relationship with Siya.

Investigators allege that the duo planned to eliminate Ketan and used a visit to Lohagad Fort as an opportunity to execute the plan.

Police claim Siya convinced Ketan to accompany her on what appeared to be a casual outing to the fort. Chetan allegedly arrived at the location separately to avoid attracting attention.

During the trek, investigators allege that Siya and Chetan pushed Ketan from behind into a gorge, causing his death.

The death was initially treated as an accidental fall, but the subsequent investigation uncovered evidence that prompted police to register a murder case.

Investigation continues

Police have stated that the case was solved through a combination of CCTV analysis, technical evidence, witness statements and digital communication records.

Officials believe the hoodie worn by the suspect in unusually hot weather became the first crucial clue that helped unravel the alleged conspiracy.

The accused have been taken into custody, and investigators are continuing to gather additional evidence as the case moves through the legal process.

Conclusion

The Pune fort murder case highlights how seemingly insignificant details can become critical pieces of evidence in a criminal investigation. What began as an apparent trekking accident was transformed into a murder probe after investigators questioned why a man would wear a hoodie during a 33-degree Celsius trek. That observation ultimately led police to uncover an alleged conspiracy involving the victim’s fiancée and her suspected lover.