Woman set on fire over gold, cash dispute in Palanpur, four booked

A 45-year-old woman was allegedly murdered in a premeditated conspiracy over a financial dispute involving gold ornaments and cash, with four persons booked for the crime, police said on Thursday.

As per a First Information Report (FIR) registered at Palanpur City West Police Station, the deceased, Shantiben Akediyala, was allegedly killed by a woman she shared close ties with, along with three accomplices, in a bid to avoid returning gold ornaments and ₹2 lakh.

The accused have been identified as Rekhaben Rathod and her husband Tejabhai Rathod, originally from Ahmedabad and currently residing in Palanpur, along with Rohit Makwana and Vishnubhai Valmiki.

Vasantbhai Akediyala (55), a contractor engaged in videography and photography work, alleged in his complaint that he and his wife had developed close relations with Rekhaben over the past decade. The accused reportedly ran a makeshift furniture business near Hanuman Tekri in Palanpur.

Over time, the couple allegedly handed over gold ornaments amounting to approximately 79 tolas and ₹2 lakh in cash to Rekhaben and her husband for investment in a livestock business, with an assurance of returns. Despite repeated demands, the accused failed to return the valuables.

As per the complaint, on March 22, 2026, Rekhaben allegedly called Shantiben to her shop around 8.20 pm on the pretext of offering prasad. Police said the victim was allegedly administered an intoxicating substance before being strangled with a wire by the accused and their accomplices.

The body was wrapped in a blanket, stuffed into a plastic bag and transported in a vehicle to a secluded location. The accused allegedly broke open a shutter in a closed compound near the Income Tax office in Palanpur, placed the body inside, poured petrol and set it on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence.

The case came to light after Shantiben was reported missing on March 23. CCTV footage later showed her entering the accused’s shop on the night of the incident but not leaving thereafter, raising suspicion.

During questioning, one of the accused allegedly confessed to the crime, stating that the murder was planned due to mounting pressure to return the gold and cash.

Police sources said the body was later traced from a drain in the highway area, and efforts were under way to recover and examine forensic evidence.

An offence of murder, criminal conspiracy and destruction of evidence has been registered. Police said more details are likely to emerge as the probe progresses.