Saralnama
A 62-year-old woman named Hamlath was found murdered in her home in Ottappana near Thotappally, Alappuzha, on August 17, 2025. Initially, police arrested a local man, Abubacker, on charges of rape and murder, but further investigation revealed that the actual perpetrators were Sainulabdeen, 43, and his wife Aneesha from Thrikkunnapuzha. The couple broke into Hamlath’s house after midnight, cutting the power supply and entering through the kitchen door. When Hamlath raised an alarm, Aneesha restrained her legs while Sainulabdeen smothered her to death. They stole a bangle and her mobile phone, scattering chili powder to cover their tracks. Police traced the stolen phone, which was being used with a different SIM card, leading to the arrest of the couple. Abubacker, who had visited the victim’s house earlier, is expected to be cleared of murder charges. The victim had been suffering from breathing difficulties and lived alone. The case highlights the ongoing investigation efforts by local authorities in Alappuzha. (Updated 23 Aug 2025, 21:13 IST; source: link)