Auto driver accused of constable's murder shot by police

A police constable was murdered in Sivaganga, and one of the accused was shot during an escape attempt. The incident happened early on Monday, March 24, 2025. A sub-inspector from the Madurai rural district police opened fire in self-defense after the suspect, Moovendran, attacked him with a knife. The police had arrested Moovendran as part of a special team investigation into the death of constable Malaiarasan. The constable was found dead on March 18, partly burned along the Madurai-Thoothukudi Inner Ring Road. During the investigation, the officers took Moovendran back to the crime scene for him to demonstrate how he committed the murder. While at the scene, Moovendran suddenly attacked the sub-inspector, injuring him. In response, the officer shot Moovendran in the leg to protect himself. Both men were taken to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai for treatment. Police said that Malaiarasan was killed after he attempted to hire Moovendran for a ride. After initially refusing, Moovendran eventually agreed for more money. During the interaction, the constable unknowingly revealed his PIN for his mobile payment app. Moovendran, who was in financial trouble, then decided to kill him. Following a night of drinking, Moovendran took Malaiarasan to a remote location, poured petrol on him, and set him on fire. He later manipulated the constable's phone to steal money, transferring money to two strangers who helped him withdraw funds. The police are also searching for Siva, a friend of Moovendran who knew about the plan.