Non-repayment of money borrowed: Man sets himself and friend on fire in Kollam

Anchal: The charred bodies of a woman and her friend were found inside her house in Thadicadu village. The deceased were identified as Sibika (40) and Biju (47), both natives of Anchal. The incident happened at 6:30 PM on Monday.

As per the police, Biju had arrived at Sibika’s residence with petrol yesterday evening. He dragged Sujitha from the sit-out of the house to a room and locked themselves inside it. He then set himself and Sibika on fire. Sibika's children tried to open the windows of the room upon hearing the cries, but they couldn’t do it. Locals soon rushed to the spot. However, the duo had died by then.

The fire spread to the cot in the room as well. It is learned that Sibika had lent Rs 3 lakhs to Biju. But things went south upon the arrival of her husband from abroad. After hearing about the money handed over to Biju, the man got furious and lodged a police complaint against Biju. The latter had then given assurance to the cops that he would return the money by March. 

But Biju suddenly took the extreme step as the day of returning the money was fast approaching. The police will launch a detailed investigation into the incident. The bodies will be handed over to the families of the deceased, after completing the procedures.

Sibika is survived by her husband Uday Kumar and children Arun and Akhilesh.

Biju is survived by his wife Sheherban and children Neboohan and Shahabas.  

 (It's important to remember that suicide is not a solution to any problem, and those struggling with mental health issues should seek help from professionals. The 'Disha' helpline provides free counselling and support services. You can call them at 1056 or 0471-2552056)