Kozhikode: In a major breakthrough in the Koodaranji double murder case, police have released a sketch of one of the victims, based on details provided by Muhammadali of Thayparambil House, Pallikkal, Cheroor Kilinakkodu, who recently surrendered and confessed to the crimes.

The sketch was prepared on Saturday by the Thiruvambady police, using Muhammadali’s statements and other leads uncovered during the investigation. A local resident, Devasya from Koodaranji, has identified the man in the sketch as someone he had hired years ago as a domestic help. Kozhikode Rural SP K E Baiju said this identification is expected to lead to further crucial evidence in the case.

The sketch was created by criminologist and artist Dr Premdas, who spent nearly five hours with Muhammadali to capture the likeness. Dr Premdas has previously worked on several high-profile cases, including the Kozhikode double bomb blast investigation.

Muhammadali had surrendered before the Vengara police on June 5, stating that the trauma of his elder son’s death and another son’s accident had disturbed his peace of mind. During his confession, he revealed having committed a murder at the age of 14, followed by a second killing later in life.

He had also led police to the location where one of the murders was committed. The sketch was finalised after police took him into custody for further questioning.