A disagreement that began months ago over a meal allegedly escalated into a fatal crime, with Varanasi Police arresting a 24-year-old man for the murder of his close friend.

The accused, Virendra Yadav, was taken into custody after investigators linked him to the death of Aftab Alam, a resident of Bihar’s Chhapra district. Police allege that Virendra strangled Aftab and abandoned his body in a field in the Sindhaura area of Varanasi.

Discovery of the Body

The case surfaced on January 8 when police received information about a body found lying in an open field. At the time, the deceased’s identity was unknown. Officers later located a bag near the body containing an identity card, which confirmed the victim as Aftab Alam. His family in Bihar was subsequently informed, and the body was sent for post-mortem examination.

Digital Trail Raises Suspicion

As the investigation progressed, police examined Aftab’s phone and banking records. Officials found that he had been in regular contact with a particular phone number in the days leading up to his death. That number was later traced to Virendra.

Investigators also discovered a bank transaction showing ₹40,000 transferred from Aftab’s account to Virendra’s account. Around the same time, Virendra’s mobile phone was switched off, raising further suspicion.

After a brief search, police located and arrested Virendra in Varanasi on Monday.

What Police Say Was the Motive

During interrogation, police said Virendra spoke about an incident from September last year. According to police, he alleged that Aftab had “tricked” him into eating suspected cow meat and later disclosed the incident to others.

Gyanendra Tripathi, Station House Officer of Sindhaura police station, said Virendra claimed the disclosure made him a subject of ridicule within their social circle. Police said the accused felt deeply humiliated and angry, emotions they believe eventually led him to plan the killing.

Worked Together, Lived Apart

Police said both men were employed as helpers at a Bengaluru-based company. While Aftab had recently been transferred to Chennai, Virendra was posted in Gujarat. Both were unmarried.

According to investigators, Aftab had gone to his hometown in Bihar on leave and later informed Virendra that he would be leaving on January 7 to return to Chennai for work.

Lured to Varanasi

Police allege that Virendra asked Aftab to come to Varanasi instead. He reportedly took leave from work and travelled there in advance. The two met at the Varanasi railway station on January 7 and spoke briefly before separating.

Later that evening, police said Virendra returned with another man on a motorcycle. On the pretext of taking Aftab home, they allegedly led him to a secluded area near the station.

Fatal Attack and Escape

According to police, Aftab was attacked and strangled at the spot. His body was then dumped in a field, after which the accused fled.

Police claimed they later recovered Aftab’s PAN card, Aadhaar card, and other personal documents from Virendra’s possession.

Case Still Unfolding

Police said Virendra admitted to the crime during questioning. Efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest the second person allegedly involved in the killing.