Prime Accused in SI Shanmugavel Murder Case Shot Dead in Police Encounter in Tamil Nadu

Manikandan, the prime accused in the brutal murder of Special Sub-Inspector (SI) Shanmugavel, was shot dead in a police encounter today in the Kudimangalam area of Tamil Nadu's Tiruppur district.

The incident traces back to a private farm owned by AIADMK MLA Mahendran in Madathukulam, where Murthy and his two sons, Thangapandian and Manikandan, had been residing and working. On Tuesday night, an altercation reportedly broke out among the trio following a drinking session. According to initial reports, Murthy was severely beaten by his sons, who allegedly chased him with sickles during the scuffle.

Upon receiving information, Special Sub-Inspector Shanmugavel of the Kudimangalam Police Station rushed to the scene to defuse the situation. However, in a shocking turn of events, all three men allegedly attacked the officer, fatally hacking him with sharp weapons. The police driver accompanying Shanmugavel was also chased by the assailants but managed to escape and alert the station.

Following the gruesome murder, multiple cases were registered under seven sections of the IPC, and a special police team was formed to apprehend the suspects. While Murthy and his elder son Thangapandian later surrendered at the local police station, Manikandan remained at large.

Acting on a tip-off that Manikandan was hiding in a plantation near Kellalur's Opparu estate, police launched an operation to apprehend him. During questioning, Manikandan allegedly attacked Assistant Inspector Saravanakumar with a weapon and attempted to flee. In response, police fired in self-defence, resulting in his death at the scene.

His body was later taken to the Udumalpet Government Hospital for post-mortem examination. Further investigations are underway.