ASI shot dead in TVM: accused identified, terror links suspected

Thiruvanathapuram: Two people have been reportedly identified as accused in the incident relating to the shooting of a ASI at Kaliyakkavilai here. Police have started probe into the incident. From the CCTV visuals obtained, police have identified the perpetrators as Kanyakumari natives Thoufeeq and Abdul Sameer. Their links to naxal and terror outfits are also being probed.

According to police, both have criminal background. Sammer is an accused in the murder case of a leader of a Hindu outfit. Thoufeeq is accused in the murder of BJP leader in Kanyakumari. The procedures to form a special investigation team to probe the case is ongoing.

The incident happened at around 10.30 pm near Padanthalumoodu checkpost near Kaliyikkavila on Wednesday night. ASI Wilson who was on duty at the checkpost was shot by two who came on a bike. Wilson died on the spot. By the time people rushed to the spot on hearing the gun shots, the attackers escaped. Shots were fired four times. Preliminary reports said there were three bullet wounds on ASI’s face.

The checkpost is located at a point where the road from Kozhivila meets the old road. Only one official was on duty at that time. Two youth who went towards the mosque’s gate near the checkpost returned and then fired. They later escaped. CCTV visuals of the accused escaping was out. From the visuals, Thoufeeq and Sameer was identified.

Kerala and Tamil Nadu police probing the case believe both are members of an organisation with terror links. Tamil Nadu police chief is in Kerala in connection with the investigation. DGPs of both state held discussions. Higher police officials of both states are expected to reach Kaliyakkavilai soon.