In a significant breakthrough, the Valiyathura police in Thiruvananthapuram apprehended a notorious history-sheeter at the international airport on Tuesday. The accused, who had been evading the law for years in connection with two separate murder cases, was taken into custody immediately after he landed on a flight from Kuwait.
Arrest at the Airport Following Lookout Notice
The arrested individual has been identified as Shijukumar, a 41-year-old resident of Murinjapalam. Police sources confirmed that his arrest was made possible through a coordinated effort after a lookout notice was issued by the state special branch. This alert system was crucial in tracing his movement and ensuring his detention the moment he stepped back onto Indian soil at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
A Fugitive's Criminal Past and Escape to Kuwait
Shijukumar's legal troubles stem from two grave crimes. He had secured bail in the 2006 murder case of Aneesh, which fell under the jurisdiction of the Medical College police station. Subsequently, he also obtained bail in the 2009 murder of Sulfikar, a case being investigated by the Kazhakkoottam police.
However, after being released on bail in both these long-pending cases, Shijukumar allegedly chose to flee the country. He left India and moved to Kuwait, thereby evading further investigation and court proceedings. His status as a fugitive and his notorious reputation led to his name being included in the rowdy list maintained by the Medical College police.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
The arrest marks the end of a prolonged period during which the accused remained outside the reach of the Kerala police. With his detention, the legal process in both the murder cases from 2006 and 2009 is expected to move forward. Authorities are now focused on the next steps of the judicial process, ensuring that he faces trial for the serious charges against him.
This operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency coordination and tools like the lookout notice in tracking down individuals attempting to escape justice by leaving the country. The Kerala police's action sends a strong message about pursuing long-pending cases and bringing accused persons to book, regardless of the time elapsed.
