KKN Gurugram Desk | The high-profile Raja Raghuvanshi honeymoon murder case has taken a dramatic new turn. In a major breakthrough on Tuesday, the Shillong Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) recovered the second murder weapon used in the crime—a steel-handled machete—from a deep gorge near Weisawdong Falls, the alleged crime scene.
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The discovery was made during a detailed crime scene reconstruction, part of the ongoing investigation dubbed “Operation Honeymoon.” This development comes as fresh details emerge about the brutal killing that has gripped national attention since May 2025.
Second Weapon Discovered Near Weisawdong Falls
According to official reports, the SIT recovered the second weapon used in Raja Raghuvanshi’s murder while conducting a forensic crime scene recreation near Weisawdong Falls, a scenic but treacherous location in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.
The recovered item is a steel-handled machete, allegedly used to strike one of the three fatal blows. Its discovery was made possible after the accused retraced their steps during the recreation, which was carried out under tight security and in the presence of eyewitnesses and legal officials.
Crime Scene Reconstruction Confirms Timeline
Superintendent of Police (East Khasi Hills), Vivek Syiem, confirmed that the crime scene recreation was conducted across five specific locations, starting from Mawlai Kyiat to the Riat Arliang parking lot. The entire event was captured on video and monitored in the presence of forensic experts, legal observers, and independent witnesses.
During the recreation, all four accused—Vishal (alias Vicky), Akash, Anand, and Sonam—reenacted each step of the crime, confirming the timeline and method used to commit the murder. Police said the reconstruction played a crucial role in mapping the sequence of events, verifying their earlier statements, and locating the hidden weapon.
Three Blows, One Murder: Chilling Details Emerge
As per statements made by SP Syiem and corroborated through forensic investigation, Raja Raghuvanshi was killed with three coordinated attacks:
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The first blow to the head was delivered by Vishal (Vicky)
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The second strike came from Akash
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The final, fatal blow was inflicted by Anand
According to reports, Sonam—Raja’s wife—was present at the scene when the first blow was struck. Upon hearing Raja scream in pain, she fled the area, leaving the three men to complete the attack and dispose of the body.
The victim’s body was thrown into a deep ravine, with two of the accused holding his arms and the third holding his legs. Raja’s body reportedly hit a rock ledge before tumbling further into the gorge.
Love Triangle or Contract Killing?
While early theories pointed to a love triangle involving Sonam, investigators now suspect a more complex motive behind the murder.
Evidence suggests that Sonam signaled the execution of the plan from the parking lot near Riat Arliang. However, police are not ruling out financial motives, including the possibility of a paid hit or property-related conflict.
Sonam reportedly showed no emotional reaction during interrogation. She answered questions without hesitation but did not express remorse, a factor raising further suspicion about the premeditated nature of the crime.
Digital Evidence: GPS and Google Maps Used
One of the most striking revelations from the investigation is the role of digital tracking. The accused have claimed that they had no prior connection with Shillong and selected the location using GPS coordinates and Google Maps.
This use of digital tools for plotting and executing a murder adds a layer of technological sophistication to the case, showing how even remote regions can become targets of carefully planned crimes.
Call Records Reveal Suspicious Activity
In a related update, investigators are analyzing call data records. Sources close to the investigation have revealed that Sonam made over 100 calls in just 25 days before the murder, including several to a new person of interest—Sanjay Verma.
The police are now probing the role of Verma and examining whether he was involved in the planning or had any financial ties to the suspects.
Impact of Crime Scene Recreation on Investigation
Experts believe that the successful crime scene reconstruction has significantly advanced the investigation by:
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Reconfirming the involvement of all four accused
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Establishing the exact timeline and sequence of actions
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Allowing the recovery of the second murder weapon
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Verifying the authenticity of statements given during interrogation
According to SP Vivek Syiem, “The recreation gave us a clearer picture of how the murder unfolded. Each suspect played their role during the reenactment, which was crucial in confirming their physical involvement.”
Next Steps in the Investigation
With the second weapon recovered and key evidence collected, the Shillong Police are preparing to file a comprehensive chargesheet. The case is expected to be tried under sections involving murder, criminal conspiracy, destruction of evidence, and abetment.
A special court may be designated for fast-track proceedings, given the high-profile nature of the case, its cross-state dimensions (Indore to Shillong), and public attention.
The Raja Raghuvanshi murder case has evolved into one of India’s most complex and chilling criminal investigations of 2025. With digital footprints, psychological profiling, and crime scene reconstructions all playing critical roles, the case highlights both the advancements in modern policing and the depths of human betrayal.
As the SIT narrows in on the final stages of the investigation, one thing is clear: what began as a honeymoon trip to Shillong has turned into a calculated murder saga, leaving behind a trail of deception, digital clues, and deadly intent.
