'Took advantage of Vijayakumar's trust, eventually became his enemy'; Amit has left the state, say police

KOTTAYAM: Assam native Amit, who is currently being investigated by the police in connection with the Thiruvathukkal double murder, was once a trusted aide of the deceased Vijayakumar. He had worked for several years at Vijayakumar’s house and auditorium. After the death of Vijayakumar's son, Amit had become a close companion and was treated like a son by the grieving father. However, Amit allegedly took advantage of that trust, stealing a phone and using it to siphon off money.

This led to Amit being punished and jailed following a police complaint. The arrest and imprisonment reportedly made Amit hostile. After being released on bail, he returned to the house and created a scene, demanding that the case be withdrawn.

Following the murder, both victims' mobile phones went missing and are currently switched off. There is suspicion that the phones may have been used to transfer money, or possibly to destroy sensitive information related to the death of Vijayakumar’s son, Gautham.

There are indications that Amit has left the state. He was last known to have rented a room in a lodge in Kottayam after the incident. The police have examined over 500 CCTV footages from the city and surrounding areas. Investigators suspect that a DVR containing missing CCTV footage may have been thrown into the house’s well. The well is being drained and inspected. The investigation is being led by Kottayam DySP K.G. Aneesh.

Head injury confirmed as cause of death

The preliminary post-mortem report confirms that both victims died due to head injuries, which led to heavy bleeding. A sharp weapon was used in the attack. Vijayakumar also sustained injuries to his chest.

Special Investigation Team formed

A special investigation team has been appointed to probe the double murder of the couple in Thiruvathukkal. Under the direction of District Police Chief Shahul Hameed, Kottayam DySP K.G. Aneesh, along with SHOs from various stations, are part of the team.

“The accused knew the couple well. Arrest will be made soon.”

– Shahul Hameed,
District Police Chief, Kottayam