The Meghalaya police are investigating the mysterious death of a 48-year-old resident of Shillong, Saumitra Chakraborty, whose body was recovered from Umiam Lake on September 21.

Saumitra had been missing since September 19, prompting concern from his family and friends. His body was discovered by locals near the lake, which lies about 15 kilometers north of Shillong, triggering an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Following the discovery, the police registered a case of unnatural death under Umiam Police Station.

According to Ri Bhoi Superintendent of Police, Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, the police are exploring multiple possibilities as they piece together evidence.

“We are collecting CCTV footage, taking statements from family members, and following several leads. So far, no significant breakthrough has been made, but we are working on various angles,” Dhanoa told The Statesman. He added that the case would be reclassified as a regular murder investigation if any evidence of foul play emerges.

The victim’s family, who cremated Saumitra’s body in Shillong on Sunday, are left in a state of shock, struggling to understand how his body ended up in the lake.

“Saumitra had no known enemies. We can’t comprehend why or how this happened,” a family member shared.

A post-mortem examination was carried out at the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) in Shillong, and the viscera has been sent for forensic analysis to ascertain the cause of death.

Police officials expect the post-mortem report by the end of the week, which could shed light on whether the death was accidental, a suicide, or something more sinister.

Saumitra Chakraborty’s disappearance has stirred unease among the residents of Shillong , where he lived. Many are questioning whether this is an isolated incident or if there may be more beneath the surface.

Umiam Lake, a popular tourist spot, has been the site of previous drownings and other incidents, prompting speculation about safety and surveillance in the area.

As the investigation continues, police have urged the public to come forward with any information that may assist in solving the case.

Meanwhile, Chakraborty’s family and friends await answers as they mourn the untimely loss of their loved one.

This incident has added to the growing list of mysterious deaths in Meghalaya, where several cases of unnatural deaths have occurred in recent years, raising concerns about safety and crime in the state.

Social media discussions and local forums have seen an outpouring of sympathy for the Chakraborty family and calls for detailed investigation into the death.

Some residents are advocating for increased police patrolling and the installation of more CCTV cameras in the area to prevent such incidents.

The police investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected as forensic results come in later this week.