Justice Sought: Arrest in Vilathikulam Tragedy

A 38-year-old man was arrested for the alleged rape and murder of a 17-year-old girl in Vilathikulam. After the victim went missing, her body was discovered a day later. CCTV footage and a stolen motorcycle helped lead to the arrest. A judicial inquiry has been initiated.

A 38-year-old man has been apprehended in connection with the rape and murder of a teenage girl in Vilathikulam, police confirmed Thursday. The accused is Dharma Muneeswaran, linked through CCTV evidence and a stolen motorcycle found near the crime scene.

The victim, who disappeared on March 10, was discovered deceased the following day. A post-mortem confirmed that she had been sexually assaulted and suffered fatal injuries. Subsequently, the case prompted a judicial intervention by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court.

The court has ordered the Vilathikulam DSP to lead the investigation, demanding a report by April 2. An Inspector and a Special Sub-Inspector faced suspension for negligence when the girl's missing report was initially filed. Ten special police teams are continuing the investigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)