Was the Murder Accused Shot by TN Police After Attacking Officers in Salem?

Synopsis
Discover the shocking events that unfolded in Salem as a 26-year-old murder suspect violently attacked police officers. This gripping story highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in protecting vulnerable communities.
Key Takeaways
- Naresh Kumar, a known repeat offender, was involved in a violent encounter with police.
- The murder of Sarasu alias Saraswathi highlights the risks faced by the elderly.
- Police have increased patrols in rural areas to enhance safety.
- The incident has raised awareness about the vulnerability of senior citizens.
- Law enforcement continues to prioritize community protection.
Salem, May 24 (NationPress) A 26-year-old man, named Naresh Kumar, who is accused of the horrific murder of a 70-year-old woman in Omalur, was shot in the leg by police early Saturday. This occurred after he launched an assault on two officers wielding a machete while attempting to flee from his hiding spot near Sankari Fort.
Naresh Kumar, hailing from Kattikaranoor village in the Omalur block, has a notorious background, with more than 20 robbery cases filed against him at various police stations within the district.
The incident dates back to May 20, when the victim, Sarasu alias Saraswathi, a resident of Chinnerikadu in Omalur, was tragically murdered while tending to her cattle. Her remains were later discovered by locals along a roadside, showing signs of violence, particularly to her ear and nose.
Initial investigations indicated that she was targeted for her gold jewellery, with at least one sovereign reported missing. The Deevattipatti police registered a case of murder and robbery, leading to the formation of special teams dedicated to locating the suspect.
Utilizing intelligence and surveillance, law enforcement identified Naresh Kumar as the main suspect and tracked him to a location at the base of Sankari Fort.
During the early hours of Saturday, a specialized police unit moved in on his position. However, as officers attempted to detain him, Naresh Kumar attacked Sub-Inspector Vijayaraghavan and Constable Selvakumar with the machete, injuring them.
In a necessary act of self-defense, one officer discharged his service pistol, striking Naresh Kumar in the leg. He collapsed immediately and was taken into custody.
Both he and the injured officers were subsequently transported to the Government Hospital in Sankari for medical attention.
According to police sources, Naresh Kumar has a criminal record of preying on elderly women in rural areas, primarily for jewellery theft. Similar incidents have been reported from Sankari and Magudanchavadi.
This incident has sparked serious worries regarding the safety of senior citizens in the area and the growing boldness of habitual offenders. Police have ramped up surveillance and patrols in vulnerable rural areas to avert further assaults.