Kothamangalam (Ernakulam): The death of a 38-year-old man in Kothamangalam, initially believed to be a suicide, is now suspected to be a case of murder.

The deceased, Anzil, hailing from Mathirappally, died on Thursday night while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kochi after reportedly consuming poison.

Anzil allegedly told his relatives that his female friend had given him the poison. Based on a complaint filed by one of Anzil’s relatives, the 30-year-old woman, a native of Chelad, has been taken into police custody for questioning. According to Mathrubhumi News, police reportedly said she confessed to her involvement during questioning.

According to reports, the woman purchased the pesticide from a local shop in Chelad, and police have recovered the bottle believed to have been used.

Anzil had visited the woman’s house on July 29. By around 4:30 a.m. the next day, he reportedly began experiencing symptoms of poisoning and informed his relatives, who rushed him to the hospital.

During the journey to hospital, Anzil told his family and friends that it was his female companion who gave him the poison. Preliminary investigation suggests that the substance ingested was a form of pesticide.

Anzil, who was married and had children, was reportedly in a long-term relationship with the woman. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted at Kalamassery Medical College.