The Rambagh Police detained three suspects in connection with the July 9 murder and robbery of 72-year-old Prem Lata Mishra. The arrest took place near the Dada Nagar bridge at around 4:30 am on Saturday, during which one accused, Shahnawaz, sustained a leg injury. Authorities recovered a pistol, ammunition, cash, and jewellery from the trio.
Investigations revealed that the crime was masterminded by Nitin Tripathi, a neighbour of the victim, who conspired with Shariq from Chamanganj and Shahnawaz from Shuklaganj, Unnao. During the robbery, the suspects stole approximately Rs1.5–2 lakh and 8–10 tolas of gold from Mishra’s residence.
Police reports indicate that Shahnawaz entered the house first, followed by Nitin, and killed the elderly woman before fleeing with valuables. Shariq acted as a lookout, coordinating with the other two via WhatsApp calls. Surveillance footage captured Shahnawaz leaving the residence, providing critical evidence to investigators.
The victim, wife of Krishna Kumar Mishra, head of the chemistry department at Har Sahai Jagdamba College, was killed in what authorities have described as a planned and premeditated robbery.
The trio attempted to escape early Saturday but were intercepted during a police operation. Family members expressed shock at Nitin Tripathi’s involvement, noting that he had always treated the victim with respect, addressing her as “aunty.”
DCP Central, Shrawan Kumar Singh, confirmed that the suspects are now in custody, and further investigation is ongoing to determine if there were any additional accomplices.
