NIA Nabs Two Fugitives in Ramalingam Murder Case
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Synopsis
The NIA arrested two fugitives, Abdul Majeeth and Shahul Hameed, linked to the murder of PMK leader Ramalingam in Tamil Nadu, associated with the banned PFI. The investigation continues as the agency seeks remaining absconders.
Key Takeaways
- Two fugitives arrested from Tamil Nadu's Ramalingam murder case.
- Affiliated with the Popular Front of India (PFI).
- Conspired to instill communal fear.
- Investigation taken over by NIA in March 2019.
- Continued search for remaining absconders.
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended two fugitives linked to the murder of Ramalingam in Tamil Nadu, a case associated with the banned Popular Front of India (PFI).
The individuals arrested have been recognized as Abdul Majeeth and Shahul Hameed, both originating from the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. NIA investigations have confirmed their involvement in the murder and their affiliation with PFI.
This duo had plotted with other suspects near the Periyapalli mosque in Thirubhuvanam on February 5, 2019, intending to amputate the hands of Ramalingam to instill fear in the community and incite communal animosity.
The NIA took over the case from the Tamil Nadu Police in March 2019 and filed charges against 18 suspects before the NIA Special Court in Chennai in August 2019.
Out of the 18 charged, six were on the run, with a reward of Rs 5 lakh offered for information leading to their capture. These absconders were also declared Proclaimed Offenders (POs) by the NIA Special Court.
In 2021, the NIA apprehended one of the six fugitives, identified as Rahman Sadiq. In November 2024, the agency located Abdul Majeeth and Shahul Hameed in the Poombarai region of Kodaikanal, Dindigul district, and arrested a harborer, M Mohammed Ali Jinnah, who became the 19th suspect in this case. Jinnah was subsequently remanded to judicial custody.
However, Abdul and Shahul managed to evade capture until their arrest by the NIA on Saturday, which continues to pursue the remaining fugitives.
Ramalingam, a leader of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), was viciously killed by PFI members on February 5, 2019, due to his opposition to the coercive conversion of marginalized individuals by the Islamist group.
