NIA to probe terrorist link in murders, to seek information from state police; Centre intervenes

ALAPPUZHA: A recent report has claimed that the NIA might seek information from the state police regarding the murders of SDPI and BJP leaders in Alappuzha. The central agency will conduct a probe regarding the terrorist links in the murders. Nearly 50 persons were taken into custody in connection with the two incidents.

Two members of the gang that murdered Shan have been arrested. It is learnt that the culprits reached the spot in a rented car. Police have identified the car. Eight other members of the gang are still on the run.

Earlier, BJP leaders had alleged that a terrorist group was behind the murder of OBC Morcha leader Renjith Sreenivasan. The leaders demanded that central agencies should probe the incident. However, NIA officials said that no official decision had been taken and that the case was being investigated by the state police. Authorities said the NIA would not intervene on the basis of the information uncovered through the police investigation.

Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai was in Alappuzha to attend Renjith's funeral. He is expected to discuss the allegations with the concerned authorities. If the state police charge sections like UAPA, it could lead to an NIA probe.