Berliner Tageblatt - Seven Arrested After VCK Functionary Killed in Thiruneermalai Attack

CHENNAI — Police have arrested seven people in connection with the killing of a 38-year-old Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi functionary in Thiruneermalai and are searching for four other suspects.

The victim, identified as Anbazhagan, served as an organizer in the volunteer wing of the VCK's Tambaram district unit.

He was attacked on Friday while playing carrom near an Ambedkar statue in Thiruneermalai. Police said a group arrived at the location in an autorickshaw and on three motorcycles.

The attackers were wearing helmets, according to accounts of the incident. Anbazhagan was assaulted with weapons and died at the scene from his injuries.

Investigators moved quickly to identify people suspected of participating in the attack. Seven suspects were taken into custody, while police continued efforts to locate four others believed to be connected to the killing.

Police records described Anbazhagan as a history-sheeter with nine pending criminal cases. Those cases included three murder cases.

Investigators are examining whether earlier disputes or criminal cases involving the victim played a role in the attack. Authorities have not completed the investigation or announced a final motive.

Anbazhagan had allegedly been involved in the 2021 killing of a DMK functionary following a dispute related to land encroachment. Reports said he had spent time in hiding after that case.

The latest killing has prompted a continuing police inquiry into the movements of the suspected attackers, their alleged roles and any wider conspiracy behind the assault.

The arrested individuals are suspects in an active criminal case. Their responsibility for the killing will be determined through investigation and court proceedings.

T.Bondarenko--BTB