India's 'Gold Shirt Man' allegedly stoned to death in front of his son

Four men, including the victim's nephew, have been arrested in connection with his murder

Dattatray Phuge (Reuters)

An Indian businessman famous for making one of the world's most expensive shirts out of 3kg of gold has allegedly been stoned to death in front his son.

Dattatray Phuge, a 48-year-old money-lender from western Pune, made headlines in 2013 after commisioning a 22-carat gold shirt valued around £187,000.

Four men, including a nephew of the victim, have been arrested in connection with his murder.

Police told reporters the victim was bludgeoned to death by a group of 12 people and officers suspect a dispute over money could have been motive for the murder, the BBC reported.

One of the attackers is said to have invited Mr Phuge and his 22-year-old son to celebrate a birthday on open ground. A group of people then allegedly attacked Mr Phuge with stones and a sharp weapon.

Police said Mr Phuge's son was spared by the killers.

Officials have said Mr Phuge was the subject of criminal cases over alleged financial irregularities, according to the Hindustan Times.

Well-known for wearing large amounts of gold on his neck, wrist and fingers, Mr Phuge explained his passion for the precious metal in 2013.

"Some people ask me why I'm wearing so much gold but it was my dream. People have different aspirations," he said.

"Some elite people want to own an Audi or Mercedes, and have big cars. I chose gold."