Maharashtra woman, ex-lover poison cop dad’s milkshake, arrested 3 years later

CHANDRAPUR: Nearly three years after a head constable's sudden death was treated as an accident, investigators in Chandrapur reopened the case and alleged it as a premeditated murder, leading to the arrest of his daughter — now a police trainee — and three others, including her estranged partner who turned whistleblower. The cop's daughter had laced the milkshake with poison and gave it to him just before duty hours.

The cop, Jayant Ballawar, collapsed while on duty near the collectorate administrative building and was later declared dead at Govt Medical College and Hospital in Chandrapur on March 25, 2023. At the time, no foul play was suspected.

The case took a decisive turn after fresh evidence was submitted by Ashish Shedmade — the estranged partner of Jayant's daughter Arya — prompting Ramnagar police to re-examine the circumstances. This led to the arrest of Arya, Ashish (30), Chaitanya alias Monty Gedam (22), and a minor from Bhadrawati.

Investigators said Arya and Ashish were in a relationship since 2022, which was strongly opposed by Jayant. The opposition reportedly led to frequent disputes at home. Police allege Arya saw her father as an obstacle in their marriage and conspired with Ashish and others to eliminate him. As part of the plan, poison was procured through a minor and delivered to Arya via a conduit, Gedam, for ₹5,000.

On the day of the incident, Jayant complained of dizziness at work after consuming the poison-laced milkshake and slumped to the ground. After the case was reopened, a review of the autopsy and chemical analysis confirmed poisoning. Statements recorded during the investigation further pointed to a planned act.

Sources indicated that neither Arya nor Ashish was employed in the police force at the time. Ashish later joined the force, but was dismissed a few months ago over misconduct. Arya secured a police position after her father's death on compassionate grounds and is currently undergoing training. Police sources said the crime was unearthed after the fallout between Arya and Ashish, who approached police and revealed the plot.

A case has been registered on the complaint of PSI Krishna Darade, and investigation is being led by PSI Ashwini Wakade under the supervision of police inspector Asif Raja Sheikh.