Three Detained as Kerala Authorities Uncover Body of Missing Individual in Manhole

Synopsis
In Kochi, Kerala, police arrested three individuals, including a former business partner, after discovering the body of a missing man, Bju Joseph, in a manhole. The investigation revealed a history of conflict between the victim and the suspect, leading to the tragic outcome.
Key Takeaways
- Bju Joseph was reported missing for two days.
- The police conducted an investigation after a missing person report was filed.
- Joseph's former business partner was implicated due to a history of financial disputes.
- The victim's body was found in a catering warehouse manhole.
- Authorities are awaiting forensic reports for confirmation of identity.
Kochi, March 22 (NationPress) Just two days after a man vanished in Thodupuzha, located near Kochi in Kerala, the police took action on Saturday by apprehending his former business associate along with two others. They discovered his body concealed within a manhole at a catering warehouse.
Bju Joseph, aged 50, was reported missing from the vicinity of his residence on Thursday. The following day, his family filed a missing person report, prompting the police to initiate an investigation.
The breakthrough came when authorities detained a known offender, whose testimony led to the arrest of Joseph’s ex-business partner, Joemon.
Post their business collaboration, Joseph and Joemon experienced significant disagreements, primarily due to the latter's alleged debt of a substantial amount.
Frequent confrontations ensued between the two, which has now raised suspicions that this animosity culminated in Joseph's murder.
Following an interrogation of Joemon, police learned of two additional accomplices in the crime, who were subsequently taken into custody.
According to police reports, Joseph was forcibly abducted by this group and transported in a vehicle. He was later assaulted at the catering facility, resulting in his demise.
The perpetrators decided to conceal the body by placing it into a manhole where food refuse was being disposed of.
After depositing the body, they utilized concrete to seal it and covered it with leftover food waste.
Upon receiving tips regarding the body's whereabouts, a police team, along with forensic specialists, arrived at the warehouse and successfully retrieved the body from the manhole.
The authorities have completed the inquest, and while they have no doubts regarding the body's identity as Joseph’s, they will await forensic results for confirmation.
Following the arrests, the police plan to present the suspects before a local court to request their custody for further investigation.