Kerala: Remains Of Woman Missing Since 15 Years Found In Septic Tank

Five people were taken into custody on Wednesday for the alleged murder of a woman who went missing 15 years ago from Mannar in Kerala's Aluppuzha district after cops found her human remains, officials said. The woman, Kala who went missing 15 years ago, was married to Anil Kumar and had a son. The information was disclosed by the police on Wednesday, July 3. The remains were found during the search in the septic tank of the house in Iramathur where Kala is believed to have been hidden. The inspection is conducted by demolishing the septic tank in the compound of Kala's husband Anil's house

As per the reports, five people have been taken into police custody for their alleged involvement in the crime. Soman, involved in the excavation process, told reporters, told Hindustan Times, “We were able to find a locket and a hair clip from the slush inside the septic tank. There was also a piece of elastic used in women’s clothing. There were some other items which have to be confirmed through forensic analysis.”

The mystery behind Kala's missing

Kala went missing in 2009 when she was 27 years old. Rumours had it that she was in an extra-marital affair. She eloped with her beloved carrying her jewellery. Anil and Kala belong to different communities and were married despite familial oppositions. 

After Kala went missing, no missing complaint was filed in the police station. But as per India Today, Ambalappuzha police station conveyed the information Kala's missing and police launched an investigation a few months ago. 

The five people who are in custody for their alleged involvement in the crime are suspected to be the aides of the main accused Anil. The five people are friends and relatives of Anil. However, as per Alappuzha SP Chaitra Theresa John, Anil is currently working in Israel and is married too. Police are making arrangements for his return to India. John also hinted that personal issues led to the murder.  

The police have charged the accused with sections 302 (murder), 201 (destruction of evidence), and 34 (criminal act by multiple persons with common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). 

As per the FIR accessed by HT, Anil and his aides killed Kala in 2009 after finding out that she had a romantic affair with another man. Although the method of murder is not mentioned, the FIR says that on the day of the murder, Kala was taken to Valiyaperumbuzha bridge near Chennithala in Alappuzha district and killed. Then her body was carried in a Maruti car and buried.