Kothamangalam: A surgery scar on the neck helped police and family members identify the woman whose body was found in a waste-dumping pit of an unoccupied house at Oonnukal, Kothamangalam. The deceased, Shanthamma (61), a native of Rajakkad in Idukki and a resident of Vengoor, Perumbavur, had been missing since August 17. A missing person’s case had already been registered at the Kuruppampady police station.

The autopsy conducted at Kalamassery Medical College on Saturday revealed that a head injury caused her death. Police said nearly nine sovereigns of gold ornaments were missing from her body, which was recovered in a partially decomposed state.

Station House Officer (SHO) of Oonnukal said Rajesh, a native of Mannamkavala in Adimali, has been identified as the prime suspect based on the victim’s phone records. He is absconding, and an investigation has been launched to trace him. His wife was questioned but claimed ignorance of his whereabouts.

The body was discovered on the premises of a house owned by a Christian priest. Earlier in the week, the priest noticed the kitchen exit door was broken and informed the police. When he returned on Friday, a foul smell from the waste pit led to the recovery of the body.

After the postmortem, the body was handed over to the family.