KOTTAYAM: Karimpanal George Kurian (Pappan - 52), who shot and killed his brother and maternal uncle at their family home in Kanjirapally over a property dispute, has been sentenced to double life imprisonment. Sessions Judge J. Nasser pronounced the verdict. Apart from the double life sentence, Kurian was also sentenced to six years in prison for home invasion, three years under the Arms Act and two years in possession of a weapon.

George Kurian killed his brother Ranju Kurian (50) and maternal uncle Mathew Skaria (Poochakallil Raju-78), a native of Koottickal Pottamkulam. The incident took place on March 7, 2022. George Kurian, who lived in Kochi and ran a real estate business, suffered a loss, which forced him to plead with his father to allow him 2.33 acres of land from the family property.

The plan was to build and sell houses here. But Ranju stood in the way, asking his father, only to allow 2 acres of land as he feared the chances of the family property turning into a housing colony. In the mediation discussion held under Mathew Skaria, Kurian opened fire from his foreign-made revolver and instantly killed his brother and uncle.

The trial began on April 24, 2023. 278 documents and 75 Mainour including a revolver were also produced. The prosecution was able to prove all counts of murder, housebreaking, intimidation of witnesses at gunpoint and the Arms Act. As the charge sheet was filed on time, the accused never got bail. Special Public Prosecutor Adv.CS Ajayan, Advocates Nibu John and Swathi S.Shivan appeared for the prosecution.