Malappuram: A 52-year-old businessman was stabbed to death by his elder brother at Vazhikkadavu in Nilambur due to family issues. The victim, Varghese, also known as Babu, belonged to the Molukalayil family and owned Elroy Paving Block, Polar Tile, and Hollow Bricks at Naikankuli. Police identified the accused as his brother, Raju, who was taken into custody shortly after the incident.

According to the police, the assault took place around 10 pm on Friday when Raju, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, arrived at Varghese’s home and stabbed him in the chest. Though Varghese was rushed to a private hospital in Edakkara, he succumbed to his injuries. The body was later shifted to Nilambur District Hospital.

Police said that Raju is a habitual drinker with a history of aggression and had been sent by Varghese for treatment at de-addiction centres in Wayanad and Kottayam. Resentment over being repeatedly admitted for treatment may have triggered the killing. He had returned from a rehabilitation centre only about three weeks ago. 

His arrest was formally recorded on Saturday, and was produced before the court, which remanded him to judicial custody. Forensic specialists examined the crime scene.

Following a post-mortem at Manjeri Medical College Hospital, the body was released to the family. The funeral will be held on Sunday at 2.45 pm at St Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Mamangara. Varghese is survived by his wife, Sheeja and their children, Varsha and Shebin.