Thane [India], October 19: Two minors have been detained in Thane for allegedly murdering their 17-year-old friend to steal his gold chain, with investigators suspecting that the duo took inspiration from the crime-planning methods depicted in the film Drishyam 3. Police said the alleged motive was to obtain money for a birthday party and the purchase of a motorcycle.
The incident came to light after the teenager went missing from Azad Nagar in Thane West on September 24. His family approached the Kasarvadavali police the following day, following which a missing-person investigation was launched.
CCTV Footage and Mobile Data Help Police
During the investigation, police examined footage from around 80 to 90 CCTV cameras in the surrounding areas. Officers also analysed mobile phone records, call detail records and location data while questioning the victim’s friends and other people who might have information about his disappearance.
Investigators reportedly became suspicious after inconsistencies emerged in statements made during the inquiry. One of the detained minors allegedly attempted to mislead the police by claiming that he had seen the missing teenager leaving with another person on a scooter.
Further questioning on October 15 reportedly led investigators to the alleged murder plot and the location where the victim’s body had been concealed.
Gold Chain Allegedly Motivated the Crime
According to the investigation, the two minors allegedly planned to take their friend’s gold chain, reportedly weighing around seven grams and valued at approximately ₹1 lakh. Police suspect that one wanted money for a birthday celebration, while the other hoped to buy a motorcycle.
The victim was allegedly lured to an isolated, bush-covered location near Brahmand Phase 2 along Ghodbunder Road on the night of September 24. Investigators allege that he was attacked with a knife and a stone.
Police further suspect that the accused returned to the location the following day and set the body on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence. The partially burnt body was subsequently recovered during the investigation.
Mobile Phone Allegedly Used to Mislead Investigators
Investigators believe the minors also attempted to obstruct the inquiry by breaking the victim’s mobile phone and throwing it onto a moving bus. The alleged intention was to complicate efforts to trace the device using mobile tower and location data.
However, technical analysis and further questioning reportedly helped police uncover inconsistencies in the account initially provided by one of the suspects.
The case demonstrates the role that CCTV footage, mobile records and other digital evidence can play in reconstructing events during a missing-person investigation.
Police Probe Alleged Influence of Drishyam 3
Police said the minors had allegedly drawn inspiration from Drishyam 3 while planning the crime and attempting to conceal their actions. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the alleged planning and efforts to mislead the authorities.
The case has also raised concerns about the influence of crime-themed entertainment on young viewers. However, the circumstances of this particular incident remain subject to the findings of the police investigation, and the allegations should not be taken as evidence that films generally cause criminal behaviour.
The Kasarvadavali police have invoked relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to murder and destruction of evidence. The investigation is continuing to establish the full sequence of events and the responsibility of those involved.
The two detained individuals are minors, and the allegations against them remain subject to the legal process.
