VIZHINJAM: The accused in blast case was arrested after 21 years. Vizhinjam native Khaleel (56), who was absconding in the case of using explosives in sea, has been arrested by Kovalam police.

The suspect was arrested by a police team consisting of Grade SI Suresh, Sajith and CPOs Ashok and Santhosh led by Kovalam SHO S Bijoy. The accused was staying in Perumathura area of Kadinamkulam. The police said that the incident took place on March 12, 2002.

The case is that he used explosive substances near Kovalam Grove beach area violating the Explosives Act. The police said that the case is for causing damage to the marine resources and causing danger to other fishermen who were engaged in fishing and those who were bathing on the beach.