Trap for wild boar was set to sell meat; accused Vineesh arrested on student’s death in Nilambur

MALAPPURAM: A youth has been arrested in connection with the death of 10th class student Ananthu, electrocuted by a wild boar trap in Nilambur. Vineesh of Vazhikkadavu was arrested in connection with the student's death. Vineesh in his statement to the police said that he had set up the power trap with the intention of selling wild boar meat. A case of culpable homicide has been registered against him. Second accused Kunju Muhammed, has also been taken into custody.

The police caught Vineesh after chasing him while he was trying to escape from his house. Another person is also being grilled by the police in the incident. There are no previous cases against Vineesh. The locals said that he is a drug addict and hunts animals. It is alleged that KSEB officials did not take action even though a complaint was filed against power theft six months ago. Ananthu's body was brought to his house in Vazhikkadavu after postmortem.

The incident has sparked a political controversy in the wake of the Nilambur by-election. Forest Minister A K Saseendran alleged a conspiracy in the tragedy. CPM state secretary M V Govindan alleged possibility of a political conspiracy and demanded an investigation. There are indications that gangs hunting wild animals are widespread in the area.