A significant development has been reported in the Ratlam Raoti forest case, where skeletal remains were found. Police suspect the remains may belong to Golu Katara, who had been missing since November 12. His family identified him through his belongings. However, official confirmation is still awaited as the remains have been sent for DNA testing.
According to police sources, Golu and three of his friends had planned a theft at the house of Maida Gamraad, the grandfather of Babu Gamraad. Babu did not get along with his grandfather and knew that he kept large amounts of cash and silver jewellery at home. He involved his friends Golu, Sanjay and Sunil in executing the plan.
On the night of October 30, the four friends, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, headed towards the house located in the middle of a field. About 50 metres away, they removed their shoes, parked their bikes and walked towards the house. Babu and Sunil stayed back while Golu and Sanjay, armed with knives, went ahead.
Golu allegedly pretended to ask for a matchstick before entering the house from behind. He gagged Maida and held a knife against his neck, while Sanjay began searching the house.
Maida resisted and grabbed the knife, which broke during the struggle. The wooden handle remained in Golu’s hand, while the blade landed in Maida’s hand. The knife struck Golu near the neck, seriously injuring him. Sanjay was also reportedly stabbed in the chest.
Hearing the commotion, all four fled the scene. About 100 metres away, Golu collapsed in a hilly area. His friends reportedly tried to revive him but, finding him unresponsive, left him in the bushes and fled.
According to officials, Maida filed a complaint against unidentified persons at the Ratnagiri police station on October 30. A missing person report for Golu was also filed on November 12. After the skeletal remains were discovered, Golu’s sister Seema and villagers from Vithapathan identified him.
Babu, Sanjay and Sunil are currently detained by the police.