Heroic Police Take Action: Murder Suspect Shot in Leg After Frantic Attack During Arrest in Salem

In a dramatic turn of events on May 24, 2025, Naresh Kumar, a 26-year-old man accused of murdering a 70-year-old woman in Omalur, was shot in the leg by police after he violently attacked officers with a machete during a botched escape attempt. The incident unfolded in the early hours at the foothills of Sankari Fort, where Kumar was believed to be hiding.

Police identified the victim as Sarasu alias Saraswathi, who lived in Chinnerikadu. According to reports, she had been tending to her cattle when she was brutally attacked. Locals later discovered her body along the roadside, with visible injuries to her ear and nose. Subsequent investigations revealed that she had been murdered and a sovereign of gold jewelry had been stolen from her.

The Deevattipatti police launched an investigation immediately, forming special teams to apprehend the suspect. Through their efforts, authorities traced Kumar’s hideout back to the Sankari Fort area. When a special police team attempted to arrest him, he reacted aggressively, swinging a machete at Sub-Inspector Vijayaraghavan and Constable Selvakumar, injuring both officers. In self-defense, police fired a service weapon, striking Kumar in the leg and causing him to collapse.

Both Kumar and the injured policemen were admitted to the Government Hospital in Sankari for treatment. Reports indicate that Kumar has a lengthy criminal history, with over 20 robbery cases registered against him at various police stations throughout the district. Authorities noted that he had previously targeted elderly women, stealing their jewelry in areas including Sankari and Magudanchavadi.

This incident has sparked outrage in the local community, raising concerns about the safety of vulnerable populations. As the investigation continues, police emphasize their commitment to apprehending individuals who prey on the innocent.

As for Kumar’s fate, legal proceedings are expected to follow, given the severity of the charges against him, including murder and assault on law enforcement. Police are also investigating possible connections between Kumar and other recent crimes in the region, aiming to ensure the safety of residents.

For now, the local community mourns the loss of Sarasu, who was beloved in her neighborhood. Investigators are working diligently to bring justice for her and to reassure residents that measures are being taken to enhance public safety.

This case highlights both the challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with repeat offenders and the tragic consequences that can arise from violent crime. The need for community vigilance and comprehensive crime prevention measures remains vital as police continue their work in the affected areas.

Keywords: Omalur murder, Naresh Kumar, police shooting, violent crime Tamil Nadu, community safety, robbery cases, elderly victim.

Tags: Tamil Nadu, Omalur, crime, police, community safety, Naresh Kumar, violence, murder investigation.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/police-shoot-murder-accused-in-leg-after-he-attacks-them-during-arrest-in-salem/article69613187.ece
Category : Tamil Nadu
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Publish Date: 2025-05-24 09:23:00