ALAPPUZHA: The cremation of Thankachan (91), of Puthenveedu in Bharanikkavu's Ilippakulam and a former sub-inspector (SI) of police, who identified Sukumara Kurup as the accused in the Chacko murder case, will be held today.

Thankachan, who was undergoing treatment due to age-related illness, passed away last day. Burial will take place at St. Stephen's Orthodox Church Cemetery, Kattanam at 11 a.m. after the service at the home this morning. Spouse: Late Salomi of Mangalathethu in Bharanikkavu. Children: Ponnamma, PT Umman (Retd. Shirastadar, Alappuzha Collectorate), Lizzie, Gracie, Raju, Jessy. In-laws: Babu K George, Prince, Jolly, BG and late George.

Gloves provided the breakthrough

Thankachan became notable when he found evidence linking Sukumarakurup to the case of Chacko, a film representative, who was burnt in a car in a bid to get the insurance amount. Mavelikkara SI Thankachan's inquiry was about the glove found at the scene of the incident. The meticulousness and accuracy in Thankachan's evidence collected was decisive in the case. Decades later, when the prime suspect remains at large, Thankachan's team was able to nab the first and second accused. Thankachan entered service as a constable and retired as Kayamkulam SI in 1986.