#JustIn: Devadhanam Double Murder Accused Injured in Police Encounter After Violent Attack
Accused attacks officer, shot during weapon hunt.
On Wednesday, 26-year-old Nagaraj, one of the main accused in the shocking Devadhanam temple double murder case, was shot in the leg by police after he violently attacked a sub-inspector and tried to escape custody. The dramatic incident took place about seven kilometers from the crime scene, where a police team from Seithur Police Station had taken Nagaraj to recover the hidden murder weapons and silver ornaments stolen from the temple. In a sudden move, Nagaraj grabbed one of the concealed weapons and assaulted Sub-Inspector Kottiyappasami, prompting Inspector Ramesh Kannan to open fire and neutralize the threat.
Nagaraj was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday following detailed analysis of evidence collected from the temple. He and his accomplice Muniyandi, who remains absconding, were identified as the prime suspects in the brutal murder of two watchmen—R Petchi Muthu, 50, and S Sankara Pandian, 65. The killings occurred late Monday night, with the motive believed to be the looting of cash from the shrine’s hundial. The recovery of the weapons and stolen items has now provided critical evidence to build a strong case against the accused.
Both the injured sub-inspector and Nagaraj were immediately rushed to the Government Hospital in Rajapalayam for treatment. Police confirmed that the use of force was necessary to prevent a dangerous suspect from fleeing and to ensure the safety of the officers. The incident has intensified the urgency of the investigation as authorities work to locate Muniyandi and determine if others were involved in the planning or execution of the crime.
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With Muniyandi still at large, police have stepped up search operations across the region. Investigators believe his interrogation could uncover deeper links or additional accomplices in the robbery-murder. The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising serious questions about the safety of temple staff and the vulnerability of religious sites to such violent crimes.
This high-drama encounter underscores the risks law enforcement faces while dealing with violent offenders. As the investigation continues, authorities have assured strict action and enhanced security measures for temples. The community awaits justice for the two watchmen who lost their lives while protecting the sacred shrine.
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