'Saw dead body in a car, was afraid to disclose'; Key witness reveals crucial information in Kala murder case

MANNAR: Soman (70), a neighbour from Vinod House in Iramathur, has come forward with a significant revelation regarding the murder of Kala from Chennithala, Iramathur. At a press conference yesterday, Soman disclosed that he saw Kala's body in a car on the night of the alleged murder.

Soman, who ran a tea shop at Iramathur Ayikkara Junction, recounted his experience:

"Around midnight, the pardoned witness in the case came to me seeking help. Initially, I refused due to the late hour but was eventually compelled to go. Kala's dead body was in the back seat of a white car parked 150 meters away near Chittambalam. Accused Pramod was in the driver's seat, Kala's husband Anil was in the front seat, Jinu Gopi was in the back seat with the body and another person whose face I couldn't identify was also present. The car contained a machete, pickaxe and rope. They asked for help to hide the body but I refused and left. The next day, I saw this vehicle being washed and cleaned at Anil's house. I kept this information hidden out of fear but have now disclosed it to officials including the district police chief."

Investigation deepens

Authorities are now looking into the travel history of Anil, Kala's husband and the first accused, from 15 years ago. Reports indicate that Anil committed the murder five days after returning home from South Africa. Police are investigating Anil's movements and interactions in the days following his return, aiming to create a detailed route map and identify individuals he met.

In addition, the police will seek a court order today to extend the custody of the accused: Chennithala Iramathur Kannampalil Jinugopi (48), Kannampalil Somarajan (55) and Kannampalil Pramod (45).