Police in Surat's Sachin GIDC area have made swift arrests in a shocking case of murder that stemmed from a public altercation. Two individuals are now in custody for the fatal stabbing of a textile worker, bringing a tragic week-long saga to a close.
Park Altercation Sparks Fatal Feud
The incident traces back to an evening over a week ago at Panchvati Garden in Talangpur village. The victim, Gagan Das, also known as Gaurav, an employee at Laxmi Villa Industries, was present with a female friend. The situation escalated when 19-year-old Gautam Dalai allegedly began recording a video of the couple on his mobile phone.
An argument broke out, during which Das reportedly slapped Dalai twice. The confrontation intensified when Das's female friend questioned Dalai about staring at her. After he denied the accusation, she allegedly subjected him to verbal abuse, which Dalai reportedly continued to film. Before leaving, Das is said to have challenged Dalai and shared the address of his workplace, a decision that would have fatal consequences.
The Week-Long Hunt and Fatal Attack
Harbouring a grudge, Gautam Dalai, along with his accomplice 25-year-old Dilip Nigwal, spent the following days searching for Gagan Das near his industrial unit. Their pursuit ended on Saturday night near Unit-F/800 in Laxmi Textile Park.
Upon spotting Das, Dalai confronted him. The encounter turned violent, and Dalai allegedly attacked Das with a sharp weapon, inflicting critical injuries. Despite medical attention, Gagan Das succumbed to his wounds, turning a dispute into a homicide case.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
The Sachin GIDC police, under Police Inspector K A Gohil, launched an immediate investigation. Officers collected crucial CCTV footage from nearby units and shops, which helped identify the two accused. Combining technical surveillance with human intelligence, the police team located and apprehended both Gautam Dalai and Dilip Nigwal within hours of the crime.
"We obtained CCTV footage from nearby units and shops and identified both accused," Inspector Gohil confirmed to TOI. "Using technical and human surveillance, we arrested them within hours. The knife and motorcycle used in the crime have also been seized." The recovery of the alleged murder weapon and the vehicle underscores the strength of the evidence gathered.
This case highlights how a seemingly minor public disagreement can spiral into extreme violence. The rapid police response demonstrates the role of modern surveillance technology in solving crimes, but also serves as a grim reminder of the deadly outcomes that can result from unresolved personal conflicts.
