ALAPPUZHA: The accused in the rape and murder case of his sister-in-law has been found dead. He was out on bail in the rape and murder case of his wife's sister. Ratheesh (41) of Kadakkarapally was found hanging in his house early Friday morning. He had killed his sister-in-law in 2021. The accused, who was out on bail recently, was absconding.

The trial of the case began on December 3. The body was found when the police were in search of him as he did not appear for the trial. The Pattanakkad police have registered a case in the incident. Ratheesh's wife is abroad.