Raphael Warjri

Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who also holds the Home (Police) portfolio, on Monday disclosed significant breakthroughs in the investigation into the disappearance of an Indore couple during their honeymoon in Sohra (Cherrapunji).

Addressing the press in Shillong, Prestone Tynsong confirmed the arrest of four suspects and the surrender of Sonam Raghuvanshi, the wife of the deceased, in Uttar Pradesh. The couple, Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi, had gone missing on May 23. Initially treated as a missing persons case, the matter escalated after Raja’s body was discovered in East Khasi Hills district, prompting the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The Meghalaya Police, in coordination with law enforcement agencies in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, arrested Akash Rajput (19) from Lalitpur, Vishal Singh Chauhan (22) and Raj Singh Kushwaha (21) from Indore, and Anand Kurmi (23) from Sagar district. Sonam surrendered at Nandganj Police Station in Ghazipur and is currently in UP Police custody. Legal procedures for her transit and interrogation are underway.

Tynsong commended the relentless efforts of the SIT, State and National Disaster Response Forces, local Dorbar Shnongs, community associations, and the media. Despite challenging weather and terrain, the joint teams pushed ahead with the investigation.

According to East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem, initial investigations were hindered by torrential rain and the lack of surveillance infrastructure in the area. He stated that the accused fled Meghalaya immediately after the incident, complicating early search operations.

Officials indicated that Sonam is a prime suspect and may have been in a prior relationship with one of the accused, Raj Singh Kushwaha. Police believe the crime was premeditated and are examining the extent of Sonam’s involvement. Her surrender coincided with the arrests, suggesting possible coordination.

SP Syiem added that travel routes used by the accused—whether by train or flight—are being verified. He also noted that Sonam remained underground until the arrests began.

Responding to criticism on social media and national platforms, Tynsong strongly defended Meghalaya’s law and order reputation, stating that the state police are highly capable and resolved the case within days. He also condemned communal remarks and misinformation circulating online. Police have reportedly initiated legal action against those spreading hate speech.

Tynsong reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and appealed for public patience. Authorities confirmed that Raja’s family has been actively involved in the process from the beginning.

To improve tourist safety, the government has instructed all hotels and homestays to maintain proper guest records. A digital registration system is also being introduced through a mobile app to alert local police stations in real time.

Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong concluded that  Meghalaya remains a safe and welcoming destination and the particular case should not deter tourists from visiting the state.