idukki, 29 April (H.S.): In a shocking development in the Pachadi double murder case, the accused Saji has confessed to brutally killing his mother Marykutty and brother Reji over a property dispute, police said.

According to investigators, the murders took place on the night of April 4 at their residence. Saji, who allegedly returned home in an intoxicated state, picked up a quarrel with his brother Reji, with whom he had an ongoing dispute over property. The argument soon escalated into a violent physical altercation.

During the scuffle, Reji was overpowered and fell to the ground. Saji then allegedly stamped on his neck and strangled him using a towel, leading to his death. Police said Saji later turned on his mother Marykutty, who was already bedridden after suffering a paralytic stroke. He reportedly assaulted her with extreme brutality—lifting her and throwing her against a wall, punching her in the face, and repeatedly banging her head, resulting in her death.

Following the murders, Saji is said to have wrapped the bodies in a green net and stored them in a woodshed for two days. On the third night, he allegedly buried the bodies in the compound of the house.

Despite committing the crime, Saji continued his daily routine and went to work as usual, raising no immediate suspicion. However, when Marykutty and Reji were reported missing, locals grew suspicious. Saji reportedly gave inconsistent explanations, claiming they had gone to Theni for treatment or were staying with relatives.

The case took a decisive turn after Saji’s sister, Sini, filed a missing persons complaint. When Nedumkandam police arrived at the house for inquiry, Saji absconded, further intensifying suspicion.

Subsequent investigation led to his arrest, during which he confessed to the crime. Police have registered a case and further investigation is underway.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman