How Rs 7 lakh gaming debt allegedly led to brutal rape-murder in South Delhi home

The accused, a 23-year-old former domestic worker, gained entry to the South Delhi residence early Wednesday morning. He bypassed security by lying to the victim, claiming her mother had authorised his visit.

The confrontation began in a rooftop study where the victim was awake. When she questioned his presence, the situation turned violent as the accused attempted to overpower her to commit assault.

During the struggle, the accused used a study lamp to bludgeon the victim, rendering her unconscious. The autopsy later confirmed a nasal bone fracture and multiple abrasions resulting from this initial attack.

The accused allegedly committed sexual assault while the victim was unconscious and unable to resist, with no explanation provided during interrogation regarding the offence.

The accused dragged the unconscious victim downstairs to access a biometric safe. He repeatedly pressed her blood-stained fingers against the sensor, though the lock failed to engage as she had succumbed.

When biometric access failed, reportedly due to lack of circulation, the accused allegedly used a screwdriver to break open the locker and stole money and jewellery before fleeing.

Before leaving the premises, the accused changed his blood-soaked clothes and shoes into items belonging to the victim’s brother. He then fled the scene to avoid immediate detection by the authorities.

The accused had accumulated debts of around Rs 7 lakh due to online gambling on social gaming platforms, which may have influenced his actions.

The accused had previously worked for the family but was dismissed over alleged misconduct and complaints, with investigators suspecting personal resentment as a contributing factor.

Hours before the Delhi incident, the accused allegedly assaulted a woman in Alwar. He now faces separate legal proceedings in both jurisdictions for these back-to-back heinous crimes and violent acts.