In a chilling act of violence that has shocked Kerala, a 55-year-old jeweller who was brutally set on fire over a financial dispute has succumbed to his injuries, police confirmed on Sunday.
The victim, identified as Ashokan, owned a jewellery store near the Ramapuram bus station in Pala. On July 19, a heated argument with an acquaintance, Thulasi Das, took a horrifying turn when Das allegedly doused Ashokan in petrol and set him ablaze.
With 80 percent burn injuries, Ashokan was rushed to the Kottayam Medical College Hospital, where he fought for his life before passing away early this morning.
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According to authorities, the two men had been embroiled in a long-standing financial feud. Police declined to provide further details on the nature of the dispute.
Thulasi Das fled the scene immediately after the attack but later surrendered at a nearby police station. He is currently in custody, and an investigation is underway.
Locals have been left stunned by the brutal act, with many calling for swift justice.
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