THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As per the preliminary conclusion, a dispute was behind the murder of Gayathri (25), a native of Kattakada, who was strangled to death by her lover in a hotel room in Thampanoor. It is learned that Gayathri's request to go with her lover Praveen (35) who is relocating to Tamil Nadu led to a dispute and murder.

Praveen, who is married and a father of two children, kept that a secret to marry Gayathri. After ensuring her death, Praveen fled the scene. The accused took Gayathri's phone with him. According to police, Praveen called the hotel reception from this phone and told them about the murder.

Gayathri and Praveen were employees of a jewellery shop in the city. Praveen is a driver at this jewellery shop. The two fell in love. Problems arose after Praveen's family came to know about his relationship with Gayathri. Following this, Gayathri quit her job eight months ago. It is learned that Gayathri was removed from the jewellery shop following a complaint by Praveen's wife. Praveen was also shifted to a showroom in Tamil Nadu. Before Praveen's departure for Tamil Nadu, the two met.

Police have received photos of Praveen and Gayathri tying their knots at the church. According to friends, Gayathri had posted pictures of herself with Praveen on WhatsApp yesterday.