Priyamvadha murder case; accused brought for evidence collection; Vinod's brother also in custody

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The accused in the Vellarada Priyamvadha murder case has been brought for evidence collection. Priyamvadha was killed by her neighbour and friend Vinod. He has reportedly confessed to the crime.

The accused's daughter had told her grandmother that she saw a hand under the bed. The grandmother told the church pastor about this. This was the crucial turning point in the case. Priyamvadha and Vinod's houses are nearby. Priyamvadha is a cashew worker.

Priyamvadha went to work on the morning of the 12th. When she did not return even after nightfall, her relatives filed a complaint with the police. Priyamvadha and Vinod had financial dealings. The accused called Priyamvadha to his home. When Priyamvadha asked for the accused to return the money she had lent him, an argument ensued and he assaulted Priyamvadha. With this, Priyamvadha became unconscious.

When Priyamvadha regained consciousness, she was strangled to death. Then, her body was hidden under the bed. The accused's children were not at home at that time. His wife is abroad. The body was buried behind the house at night.

Vinod was also present when relatives and locals were searching for Priyamvadha. This morning too, he had inquired from Priyamvadha's relatives about the progress of the police investigation. Based on the information provided by the relative, the police took Vinod into custody and questioned him. The police have also taken Vinod's brother into custody. It is being investigated whether he helped clean the house after the crime.