Teenage girl found murdered in Kerala's Malappuram, minor detained

Malappuram (Kerala), Jan 16
A 14-year-old girl was found murdered in Kerala's Malappuram on Friday, sparking widespread shock in the local community.

The body of the Class 9 student was discovered in a bushy area adjoining the railway track between Vaniyambalam and Thodiyapulath.

She had left home for school the previous day but did not return.

Police have taken a minor boy, reportedly her friend, into custody in connection with the case.

According to police, the girl got down from a bus at the Karuvarakundu school junction at around 9.30 a.m.

She was not seen thereafter.

Her body was later recovered in a bushy area at Pullippadam.

The girl’s hands were tied together, and she was still wearing her school uniform.

The police have detained a 16-year-old Plus One student, and there are indications that he has confessed to the crime.

Authorities said that when taken into custody on suspicion, the accused himself led them to the spot where the body had been dumped.

Investigations revealed that the murder was committed by strangulation, and the accused has reportedly admitted to sexually assaulting the girl.

Reacting to the tragedy, a family member of the deceased said: "The boy who has been apprehended was warned by the police not to follow the girl after we raised complaints about it. We want a detailed probe into what has happened."

The family has demanded a thorough investigation to clarify the circumstances leading to the incident and ensure accountability.

The Malappuram police have confirmed that the case is under active investigation and have urged anyone with information to come forward to aid the probe.

The community has expressed deep grief over the incident, raising concerns about student safety and the protection of minors in the area.

Authorities are reviewing police records and prior complaints regarding the accused minor, while forensic teams continue to examine evidence from the crime scene. Investigators have emphasised that the probe will be conducted in a detailed and transparent manner to prevent any lapses in the case.