Thiruvananthapuram: Skeletal remains, including a human skull, were discovered inside a forested area in Thenmala in Kollam on Tuesday morning. The remains were found in the forest near the elevated region close to Thenmala Dam Junction.
According to police, a group of women who ventured into the forest to collect firewood stumbled upon the skeletal remains and immediately alerted authorities. During the inspection, officials also recovered clothing, a pair of footwear, and a decomposed rope tied to a nearby tree, raising suspicions of a possible suicide. Preliminary assessments indicate that the remains are those of a male. Police said the condition and positioning of the materials found at the site suggest that the death could be self-inflicted, though this has not yet been confirmed.
A team from Thenmala police station, along with forensic experts, conducted a detailed examination of the area. The remains have been sent for forensic analysis to establish identity and determine the exact cause of death. Investigators said they are focusing on a missing person case reported from a nearby locality in July 2024. "We are examining whether the remains belong to the missing individual. Scientific tests and further evidence will be crucial in confirming this," a police officer said.
Thenmala police registered a case and initiated further proceedings. More clarity is expected once forensic reports are received.
