KOLLAM: A neighbouring family has been arrested for stabbing and killing a woman who opposed spilling sewage water on to the road. Umesh Babu (62) of Family Nagar in Pazhayath Junction in Uliyakovil, his wife Shakunthala (44), and daughter Megha (20) were arrested by East police. 24-year-old Abhirami, daughter of Damodara and Leena Moses of Damodar Mandir in Sneha Nagar near Pazhayath Junction in Uliyakovil was killed during the dispute. Abhirami's mother Leena has been admitted to Parippally medical college after suffering severe injuries. Criminal charges were imposed on Shakunthala and daughter Megha for provoking Leena and bringing her to the house with a motive to kill.

Umesh Babu, who was under treatment at Parippally medical college after suffering an injury from knife, was taken into police custody on Friday evening. Police collected evidence by taking him to the house in Pazhayath Junction on Saturday morning.

Sewage water from Umesh Babu's house was flowing to the road on the backside of his residence. Eight families, including Abhirami's family, had complained to the police about this. Umesh Babu agreed to the police that this was the motive behind the murder.

On Thursday night, Umesh's wife and daughter took a video of Leena going to a neighbour's house. When questioned, Umesh rushed towards Leena and stabbed her. She suffered injuries on her neck and chest. Abhirami, who rushed here on hearing scream was stabbed in the stomach.

Abhirami's body was handed over to the relatives after COVID test and autopsy. The funeral will be held after her father Moses Damodar arrive from the Middle East.