KANNUR: The main accused in the murder case of CPM activist Haridas, Parakandi Nijil Das (38) was caught via WhatsApp chat with his wife at night. The accused was caught after checking his wife's phone. The police arrested the accused after checking the tower location after learning that Nijil was in touch with his wife on the phone.

The police were shocked to learn that the accused in the murder of the CPM leader had gone into hiding in the CPM strongholds. Bombs were thrown at the house last night where the accused stayed. The incident took place just 200 meters from the house of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Pinarayi SI also lives near this house.

Nijil Das went into hiding at Prashanth's house in Pandyalamukku,Pinarayi. Reshma, Prashanth's wife and a teacher, was arrested by the police in connection with the case. Prashanth, who works abroad, is known locally as a CPM activist. Police arrested Nijil Das from Prashanth's house on Friday morning. A team led by New Mahe SIs Vipin and Anil Kumar raided the house and caught the accused.

Punnol Haridas was killed on February 28 this year. Nijil was initially questioned and released, but his role became clear in the subsequent investigation. An anticipatory bail application was filed but was rejected. Two more accused are yet to be arrested in the case.