3 siblings found dead in locked Maharashtra flat, cops suspect suicide by poisoning

Three siblings were found dead inside their locked flat in Maharashtra's Virar West, with police suspecting suicide by poisoning. Preliminary investigations suggest that one of the victims was suffering from cancer and the family was facing financial difficulties, which may have forced them to take the extreme step, police said on Thursday.The victims were identified as Kumar Mansukhlal Mehta (50), Deepesh Mansukhlal Mehta (52) and their sister Khevna Mansukhlal Mehta (48). The bodies were found inside their flat in Global City residential complex after residents noticed a foul smell emanating from the premises. Following this, the residents alerted the society secretary, who subsequently informed the police.A police team reached the spot and inspected the flat, where they found the bodies of the three siblings. Preliminary findings suggest that the three may have died by suicide after allegedly consuming poison. However, the exact cause of death is yet to be established.According to preliminary information, one of the siblings was suffering from cancer, while the family was also experiencing financial difficulties. Police suspect these circumstances may have prompted the victims to take the extreme step, but are investigating all possible angles. A forensic team visited the flat and collected evidence. Police also conducted a panchnama (an official record of the scene and circumstances prepared in the presence of independent witnesses), and sent the bodies for a post-mortem examination to ascertain the cause of death.The Bolinj police have registered an accidental death report and are investigating the case.THIRD SUICIDE IN BUILDING IN A YEAR The incident has also brought attention to two other suicide cases reported in the same building over the past year.Around two months ago, a former military officer allegedly died by suicide in the building. Before that, a Class 10 student had died after jumping from the 14th floor.The incidents have left residents of the residential complex concerned, with the latest suicide adding to the anxiety among those living in the building.- Ends(with inputs from Pravin Sitaram Nalawade)