A history-sheeter known as John, alias Chanakya (35), was brutally hacked to death by a six-member gang in broad daylight near Nasiyanur on the Salem-Kochi National Highway.
The shocking incident, which occurred while John was traveling in a car with his wife, has led to multiple arrests and a police encounter where three suspects were shot in the leg.
John, a resident of Kitchipalayam in Salem, had multiple criminal cases pending against him across various police stations in the district. On the day of the attack, he was reportedly returning home after appearing at the Annadhanapatti police station in Salem for a routine sign-in related to a case.
According to police reports, a gang in a car followed John’s vehicle and rammed into it from behind, forcing him to stop near Nasiyanur. Four assailants then emerged from their vehicle, dragged John’s wife Saranya aside, and brutally attacked him with machetes. Despite Saranya’s desperate pleas, John succumbed to his injuries on the spot.
Following the gruesome murder, Sithode police launched an immediate investigation. They swiftly tracked down three of the accused—identified as Sathish, Saravanan, and Bhoopalan. During the pursuit, these suspects allegedly attempted to attack the police, prompting officers to open fire, injuring the three in their legs before apprehending them. Another suspect, Karthik, was also later arrested.
The police continue their investigation to determine the exact motive behind the brutal killing and to apprehend any remaining individuals involved in the crime. The incident has sent shockwaves across the region, highlighting ongoing concerns about criminal activities.