A Virginia man of Indian origin, Naresh Bhatt, 33, is facing murder charges in connection with the mysterious disappearance of his wife, Mamta Kafle Bhatt, 28, originally from Nepal. Prosecutors have revealed troubling evidence, including online searches made by Naresh for “how soon can you remarry” after a spouse’s death and suspicious purchases following Mamta’s disappearance.
Court records indicate that Bhatt has been formally indicted by a grand jury in Prince William County on charges of murder, defiling a body, and concealing a body. Mamta was last seen on July 29, and her body has not been located despite an ongoing investigation. She was reported missing on August 5 after failing to appear for work, which led to a police wellness check.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that Bhatt had conducted online searches related to the aftermath of a spouse’s death, including inquiries about remarriage and the legal implications of a spouse’s disappearance. Furthermore, evidence revealed that he purchased three knives at a local Walmart, with two of them still unaccounted for. Surveillance footage allegedly captured Bhatt buying cleaning supplies shortly after Mamta went missing.
Prosecutors have indicated that Bhatt disposed of a bloodstained bath mat and other incriminating items in a trash compactor soon after his wife disappeared. Despite his attorneys claiming Mamta is still alive, DNA evidence confirming her blood was found in their home has raised serious concerns about her fate.
Bhatt initially provided vague explanations regarding his wife’s whereabouts and delayed reporting her missing. He was arrested following a search of their residence on August 22 and has remained in custody since, with bail denied in September.
Mamta’s mother, Gita Kafle, shared her anguish in an interview, describing her daughter as hardworking and ambitious. The investigation continues as authorities conduct extensive searches for Mamta, intensifying suspicions that she may have been murdered by her husband.