Coimbatore, 07 March (H.S.): Police in Coimbatore have launched an intensive search for a domestic worker suspected to be involved in the murder of 83-year-old Kasturi G. Kutty, daughter of the late P. V. Rama Varier, founder of Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (AVP), a renowned Ayurvedic institution.
Investigators suspect the involvement of Surja Roka, a Nepalese national who had been working as a home nurse for the elderly woman. Police believe the murder may have taken place during a robbery at Kasturi’s residence on Nanjundapuram Road.
Kasturi G. Kutty was found dead at her home in Parson Apartments on Nanjundapuram Road on Friday. According to police officials, the victim was discovered lying on her bed with her hands and legs tied and adhesive tape placed over her mouth. The circumstances suggested that she had been restrained before being killed.
CCTV footage collected from the apartment complex has become a key piece of evidence in the investigation. Police said the footage shows Surja Roka leaving the premises by jumping over the compound wall along with four other individuals while carrying a bag. Based on this footage, investigators suspect that the nurse may have assisted the attackers and helped them gain entry into the flat.
Further examination of CCTV recordings revealed that three unidentified persons entered the apartment around 12.15 a.m. They reportedly left within half an hour. The footage also appears to show Surja opening the door for the intruders, strengthening police suspicions about her involvement.
Police also recovered the suspect’s mobile phone from the vicinity of the house, which may provide crucial leads in tracking her movements and identifying the accomplices involved in the crime.
Authorities said the house had been ransacked, with cupboards broken open. A two-sovereign gold chain worn by the victim is reported to be missing, though the total value of the stolen items is yet to be confirmed.
Kasturi had been living in the apartment with her son, Dr. Ramkumar Kutty, a director of AVP and associated with the Vaidyagram Hospital in Velanthavalam. At the time of the incident, he was travelling abroad. Concern arose when Kasturi’s daughter tried calling her on Friday morning but received no response. She then alerted neighbours, who checked the apartment and discovered the body.
Police from the Ramanathapuram station reached the scene and began a detailed investigation under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Karthikeyan and Assistant Commissioner Vasantharaj. A six-member special team has been formed to trace the suspects.
Kasturi was the widow of the late Gopalan Kutty, a former AVP director. She is survived by her children Dr. Ramkumar Kutty, Sujatha, and Sushila, who resides in Mumbai. Police have expanded the investigation to locate the suspects and determine the full circumstances behind the crime.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
