Alappuzha women missing case: Knife, hammer, diesel can recovered from Sebastian's car

Kottayam: In a major development in the investigation of the missing case of 54-year-old Jainamma, a native of Ettumanoor, the Crime Branch has recovered a knife, a hammer, a wallet, and a 20-litre can emitting a strong diesel smell from the car used by the accused, C M Sebastian (68).

The discovery was made during a surprise inspection at the residence of Sebastian’s wife near Vettimukal, where the car was parked. Investigators confirmed that the 20-litre can had been used to purchase diesel.

A day earlier, the team had recovered the burnt dial of a wristwatch and a pair of footwear. However, the victim's mobile phone has yet to be traced.

The court has extended Sebastian's custody with the Crime Branch by seven more days, following an application submitted before Ettumanoor Judicial First Class Magistrate A Nisam. Investigators informed the court that there is substantial evidence linking Sebastian to the case and that further interrogation is necessary.

The human remains found on the premises of Sebastian's house in Cherthala have been confirmed to be those of a woman. To determine whether they belong to Jainamma, authorities are awaiting the results of DNA and other scientific examinations.

Meanwhile, the Alappuzha Crime Branch team investigating the missing case of Bindu Prabhakaran, a native of Kadakkarappally, has collected DNA samples from her brother, Praveen, to determine whether the remains found at Sebastian's house belong to her. The team has also recorded Praveen’s statement. 

The Crime Branch also informed the court that many of Sebastian's statements were inconsistent and required clarification. CCTV footage and scientific evidence strongly point to his involvement, but investigators said he has not been cooperating during questioning and evidence collection.