Thiruvananthapuram: After two decades on the run, a convict who absconded during his parole has finally returned to Poojappura Central Prison.

Thankachan, a resident of Idukki convicted of murder, surrendered before police, accompanied by his son-in-law.

Thankachan was incarcerated in 2000 and granted parole after three years. However, he failed to return, prompting a widespread police search across different locations which yielded no leads.

During his absence, Thankachan claimed to have been employed on various estates in Wayanad.