Gambling Addict Arrested for Murdering 74-Year-Old Woman and Burning House to Hide Evidence

Mumbai: A man with a severe online gambling addiction has been arrested in Bhiwandi, Thane district, for allegedly murdering a 74-year-old woman, stealing her gold jewelry, and then setting her house on fire to cover his tracks, police officials reported on Monday.

The crime occurred on August 14 in Zatewada, according to the Bhiwandi taluka police station. The accused, Abhimanyu Gupta, 35, reportedly attacked Sevamary Augustin Nadar while she was alone, slit her throat, and took her gold ornaments before setting the house ablaze.

Police tracked Gupta to a lodge in Thane and apprehended him on Saturday. He now faces charges of murder and other related offenses. Investigations revealed that Gupta, who had previously worked at a dairy run by the victim’s son, had lost over ₹2 lakh in online gambling. This financial desperation led him to plan the robbery and murder, as he was familiar with the family’s details.

Gupta has been remanded in police custody until August 28.