Diamond Merchant Commits Suicide in Colaba Amid Financial Struggles

A 65-year-old diamond merchant allegedly ended his life by jumping into the sea near Hotel Taj in Colaba, according to a Mumbai police official. Sanjay Shantilal Shah, reportedly stressed due to financial losses, informed his family he was going for a morning walk before taking the drastic step on Sunday morning, stated an official from Colaba police station.

Shah resided in a building on Bhulabhai Desai Road close to Mahalaxmi Temple. He was engaged in the diamond trade, buying and selling diamonds. Over the past two to three years, he faced significant business losses, which led to severe financial difficulties, the official added.

After leaving his building, Shah booked a taxi and headed to Bandra Worli Sea Link. He circled the area three to four times before asking the driver to take him to Gateway of India. Upon reaching near Taj Hotel, he jumped into the sea.

Police Investigation Underway

Upon being alerted, police and fire brigade personnel arrived at the scene. They retrieved Shah from the water and rushed him to a nearby hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival, said the official. "We will soon record statements of his family," he added.

An accidental death case has been registered, and further investigation is ongoing, confirmed the Colaba police station official.