Mumbai Crime: 35-Year-Old Dubai Returnee’s Ghatkopar Death Turns Murder Case, Mother-In-Law Among 5 Arrested

Mumbai, August 19, 2026: The murder of 35-year-old Sapna Pramod Ganji, who had recently returned from a holiday in Dubai, has turned into a premeditated case following the arrest of five individuals. Police have apprehended Sapna's mother-in-law, Dhanalakshmi Bhikshapati Ganji, aged 60, along with her domestic help, Mangalabai Suresh Jadhav, 45, her husband Suresh Ganpat Jadhav, 46, daughter Shivani Suresh Jadhav, 21, and son Sajan Suresh Jadhav, 19.

Allegedly, the deceased, daughter of Rajendra Narsayya Vallal of Nalasopara, was strangled at her Ghatkopar residence. Police claim the accused conspired to murder Sapna, with Dhanalakshmi reportedly offering Rs 3 lakh for their participation. The FIR states that Sapna's husband, father-in-law, mother-in-law, and brothers-in-law allegedly subjected her to harassment after she gave birth to their son in 2016 and returned to her parents' home.

In August 2024, she filed complaints against her in-laws for harassment under Section 498A of the IPC and the Domestic Violence Act. Sapna returned to Mumbai following assurances from her husband and family in August 2024. Around a year ago, the family moved within the same building in Pantnagar. In February 2026, Sapna's husband was transferred to Dubai, leading to their return to Mumbai.

On August 16, 2026, Sapna was found dead in Triveni Apartment, D Wing, Room No. 204. Police allege that Dhanalakshmi and her family conspired to kill Sapna about a month prior, involving the use of chilli powder, strangulation, and evidence destruction. Dhanalakshmi reportedly attempted to initially claim the death as an accident due to a slip in the bathroom.

However, dark bluish marks and bleeding were noticed around Sapna's neck and head, prompting further examination. Police are continuing investigations into the matter.