Alappuzha: Police have arrested the mother also in connection with the murder of a young woman who was strangled to death in Omanappuzha, Mararikulam, allegedly by her father. Jessy, mother of Angel Jasmin (28), who was killed at her residence in the 15th ward of Mararikulam South panchayat, has now been arrested, following the arrest of the father, Josmon, the previous day.

Police said they arrested Jessy after it was found that she too was involved in the murder. While Josmon strangled his daughter using a towel, Jessy allegedly held Angel’s hands to help him, according to the investigation. It is also learned that a relative who helped conceal the crime may be added as an accused.

The police stated that Angel was strangled using a towel by Josmon. The incident took place around 11 pm on Tuesday at their home. The post-mortem report revealed that Angel died due to the rupture of two blood vessels in the neck.

According to the police, Angel had been married three years ago, but returned to her parental home five months back following a dispute with her husband. Since her return, frequent quarrels have been occurring between her and parents as well as other family members. On Tuesday night, despite Josmon's objection, Angel went out on a scooter. Upon her return, a scuffle broke out between them. During the altercation, Josmon used a towel that had fallen on the floor to strangle her. Jessy was present at the time of the incident.

On Wednesday morning, Josmon and his wife informed neighbours that their daughter had been found dead. Panchayat member P J Immanuel, who was alerted to the incident, informed the police. The body was subsequently shifted to the Chettikad Community Health Centre by the police.

During the inquest held at the health centre, marks found on Angel’s neck raised suspicion. Police then summoned Josmon to the station. During questioning by Inspector Tolson P Joseph, he confessed to the crime. Josmon also stated that Angel had physically assaulted his father Xavier the previous day. On Wednesday night, police questioned all family members and later sealed the house.