Accused in astrologer murder surrenders in Ambattur court

The accused Raghu (34) from Tirupur who works at a private clothing firm, had murdered astrologer J Ramesh (35) as he suspected the later of having an affair with his lover and fled the scene.

Even as the Tirupur police were launched a hunt for the accused, Raghu surrendered before magistrate Anitha at Ambattur and was remanded to 15 days judicial custody. The Ambattur police later took him to the Puzhal jail where is presently lodged.

On Monday, the astrologer from Bharathi Pudur in Tirupur was hacked to death with a sickle in full public view at the entrance of Velli Vizha Park. A few members of public watched the murder but didn’t attempt to prevent the attack.

Police said that the Raghu had first sought the help of the astrologer to lure a married co-worker and had succeeded in his attempt. “However, things turned sour between Raghu and the woman after her family got to know about the affair. This upset Raghu who returned to the astrologer seeking help,” a police official said.

Suspecting that the astrologer had got close to the woman instead of helping him with the affair, Raghu had gone to confront Ramesh with a sickle hidden in his bag.

Both the men were seen engaged in heated arguments following which the astrologer walked away when Raghu took the sickle out of his bag and hacked him in full public view.

The accused is expected to be taken for questioning by the Tirupur police to proceed with the investigation.