Assam Man Arrested for Allegedly Murdering Live-In Partner in Mumbai's Malvani

According to the police, Shamsuddin, a native of Assam, and Salima Khatun, a 33-year-old woman originally from Kolkata, became acquainted through social media and later entered into a relationship. The couple had been living together in a rented residence in New Collector Compound, Malvani, for the past one-and-a-half years.

Investigators stated that Shamsuddin allegedly suspected Salima of being involved in a relationship with another man and believed she was cheating on him. The suspicion reportedly led to frequent disputes between the couple.

Police said that on May 19, during one such argument, Shamsuddin allegedly attacked Salima with a knife and slit her throat before fleeing the scene.

The crime remained undiscovered for several days. Concern arose when Salima's sister was unable to contact her despite making repeated phone calls. Her mobile phone remained switched off, raising further suspicion. At the same time, neighbours reported a foul smell emanating from the rented house.

Acting on the complaints, Malvani Police visited the residence and opened the house, where they discovered Salima's semi-decomposed body. The deceased was subsequently sent for a post-mortem examination, which confirmed that she had been murdered.

Police said the body was found three days after the crime. Based on a complaint lodged by the victim's sister, a murder case was registered and a detailed investigation was launched.

Using technical surveillance and intelligence inputs, investigators tracked the accused to Assam. He was arrested on Tuesday and brought back to Mumbai for further legal proceedings.

During interrogation, Shamsuddin allegedly confessed that his suspicion regarding Salima's alleged affair had triggered the fatal attack. Further investigation revealed that the accused worked as a mason.

After being produced before a local court in Mumbai, Shamsuddin was remanded to police custody until June 6. The case highlights the tragic consequences of relationship disputes and underscores the role of coordinated investigative efforts in tracking down suspects who attempt to evade arrest by fleeing across state borders.