Pathanamthitta Police expose staged scooter crash meant to win woman’s trust
Pathanamthitta: What initially appeared to be a routine road accident on a busy evening in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district has now been uncovered as a calculated act of violence rooted in obsession and deception.
The incident occurred on December 23 at around 5.30 pm, when a woman was riding her scooter home from Adoor after attending a coaching class. As she reached Vazhamuttom East, a car began tailing her closely before ramming into the scooter from behind. She was thrown onto the road, while the vehicle sped away without stopping.
The woman sustained serious injuries, including a dislocated right elbow, a fractured little finger, and multiple cuts and bruises across her body.
Police said a 24-year-old man and his teenage friend deliberately staged the scooter crash, intentionally injuring the woman and then attempting to present themselves as her rescuers in a bid to gain her trust and sympathy.
The accused have been identified as Ranjith Rajan (24) of Mammoodu in Konni and his associate Ajas (19), a resident of Payyanamon. Investigators said Ranjith had previously been in a relationship with the woman and was determined to reassert control over her life after the relationship ended.
Upon seeing the crash, bystanders rushed to her aid, alarmed by the sudden collision. Moments later, Ranjith arrived at the scene in an Innova car. Claiming to be the woman’s husband, he reassured the crowd and took her to a private hospital in Konni, projecting himself as a concerned and helpful rescuer.
‘Act of kindness’ revealed to be crime plot
Initially, police registered the case as a standard road accident based on the woman’s statement. However, inconsistencies emerged during follow-up questioning, prompting investigators to dig deeper.
Subsequent investigations revealed that this apparent act of kindness was part of the plot.
Police found that Ajas had intentionally rammed the scooter on Ranjith’s instructions, while Ranjith staged the rescue to manipulate the woman and her family emotionally. Once the conspiracy was established, police invoked charges of attempt to murder.
“The accused believed they could exploit fear and gratitude to control the situation,” a police officer said. “Instead, their actions caused severe injuries and could easily have resulted in a fatality.”
The investigation is being led by Sub-Inspector Alexkutty S of the Pathanamthitta Police. Both accused have been arrested and produced before the court.
PTI