Idukki (Kerala), April 27 (IANS) A chilling case of suspected double murder has emerged from Nedumkandam in Kerala’s Idukki district, where a 70-year-old woman and her son were allegedly killed and buried within their own property, police said.

Police have intensified the search for the woman’s younger son, who is currently absconding.

The deceased have been identified as Marykutty Mathew, 70, and her son Reji, 48, residents of Pachadi near Nedumkandam.

Both had been missing since early April, with police confirming they were last seen on April 9.

Their disappearance initially drew little attention, but suspicion mounted after the younger son, Saji, reportedly gave contradictory responses when questioned by locals about their whereabouts.

Acting on a complaint filed by Marykutty’s daughter, police conducted a search at the family’s residence.

During the inspection, two decomposed bodies believed to be those of Marykutty and Reji were found buried in the compound.

According to Idukki SP K.M. Sabu Mathew, the bodies were in an advanced state of decomposition, making identification difficult.

He added that post-mortem examinations are necessary to confirm their identities and determine the exact cause of death.

Preliminary investigations point to a possible family dispute.

Relatives, including Marykutty’s son-in-law Raju, have stated that frequent arguments between Reji and Saji were common.

“There were daily verbal clashes between them. When we inquired about Marykutty, Saji’s responses were inconsistent,” Raju said.

Police suspect that Saji may have murdered his mother and elder brother before burying them on the premises.

A forensic team has conducted a detailed examination of the site, and the bodies have been shifted to Idukki Medical College for further analysis.

Authorities have launched an extensive manhunt under the supervision of the district police chief to trace Saji.

Investigators are also collecting statements from relatives and local residents to piece together the sequence of events.

Officials said clarity on whether the deaths were indeed homicides will emerge only after forensic and post-mortem examinations are completed.

–IANS

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