CHENNAI: An Instagram fuelled relationship turned toxic and led to murder of a 22 year old youth in Pallavaram on Pongal eve.
The victim, Selvakumar (22), a construction worker from Tirusulam, was allegedly lured to his death by two women he met on the platform. The prime accused are Reena (24), a married woman, and her friend Rakshitha (25), both residents of Old Pallavaram. A 17-year-old boy has also been detained for direct involvement in the killing. Police are conducting a manhunt for three other Instagram friends of the women, including a man named Alex (24), who are accused of carrying out the murder.
According to police investigations, Reena and Rakshitha were deeply immersed in Instagram, using it to connect with numerous young men. Reports suggest they extracted money from these contacts and lived a lavish lifestyle.
Selvakumar connected with Reena on Instagram, and despite her marital status, a romantic liaison developed. He later also befriended Rakshitha. Police state that Selvakumar subsequently established sexual relationships with both women.
The situation deteriorated when Selvakumar, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, began subjecting the women to intense sexual harassment and threats. He reportedly forbade them from having any further contact with other men on Instagram.
Feeling trapped and believing Selvakumar would never allow them freedom, Reena and Rakshitha allegedly decided to eliminate him. They conspired with four of their Instagram connections, including the 17-year-old boy and Alex.
On Wednesday night Reena called Selvakumar, inviting him to Subham Nagar in Old Pallavaram with the promise of spending time with them. When Selvakumar arrived on his two-wheeler and was talking to the women by the roadside, the four accomplices arrived on two bikes.
In a swift and brutal attack, they chased Selvakumar down the road and hacked him to death with sickles before fleeing the scene. Reena and Rakshitha then allegedly staged a drama, claiming to bystanders that robbers had attacked Selvakumar, and feigned fainting.
Selvakumar was rushed to a government hospital but succumbed to his injuries the following day. The Pallavaram police, upon examining the women's phones, uncovered their extensive Instagram networks and the planned nature of the crime.
During interrogation, Reena and Rakshitha reportedly confessed to the conspiracy. The police have detained the two women and the 17-year-old boy. A search is on for the other three assailants.