Mystery surrounding deaths of Akhila's first husband and dance school employee; police to conduct detailed probe

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Police are set to expand their investigation into the murder of one-and-a-half-year-old Arshid in Nedumangad by examining the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the child's father, Akhil, and a woman who previously worked with the accused Akhila at a dance school. Investigators suspect that both deaths may warrant further scrutiny.

Akhil and Akhila married after a romantic relationship. Akhil died while Akhila was pregnant with Arshid. Speaking to the media the other day, Akhil's father, Sunil Kumar, claimed that his son died by suicide. He alleged that Akhila had been involved in a relationship with another man before her association with Ashkar, and that the matter had previously reached a police station after Akhil became aware of it. According to Sunil Kumar, Akhila informed police that she no longer wished to live with Akhil and subsequently returned to her parental home. He said that Akhil went back home afterwards and later took his own life. Police have now decided to conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances that led to his death.

Investigators will also probe the death of a woman from Chirayinkeezhu who worked alongside Akhila at the dance school. The woman had reportedly been engaged to Ashkar, who was employed as a driver at the institution. However, Ashkar later withdrew from the marriage arrangement and began living with Akhila. The woman died shortly afterwards. Police are expected to examine whether Akhila and Ashkar had any connection to her death.

The investigation follows the brutal murder of Arshid, who was found dead on Friday. Ashkar initially took the child to a hospital, claiming that the toddler had vomited while being fed. However, a post-mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was a severe chest injury. Doctors also found multiple burn marks and other injuries on the child's body.

During intensive questioning, Ashkar confessed to the crime. He told investigators that the child had cried continuously while being fed and that he struck the toddler on the head after becoming frustrated. Akhila also admitted that Ashkar had a history of physically assaulting the child.

Police are continuing their investigation into the case and are expected to examine all related allegations and suspicious deaths linked to the accused.