ASI who made inquest on Sr Abhaya's body commits suicide

Kottayam, Nov 25 (UNI) The Police officer who made inquest on the body of Sr Abhaya, who was found dead in the well of a convent here 16 years ago, allegedly committed suicide today by cutting vein on his wrists.

The body of V V Augustine, former Assistant Sub-Inspector attached to the west police station here, was found in a bush near his house at Chalachira in Chingavanam, 20 km from here.

Senior police officials rushed to the spot and cordoned the area.

His death comes in the midst of rumours that the CBI would arrest him shortly for destroying evidence on the alleged murder of Sr Abhaya whose body was found in the well of the Pius Xth Convent on March 27, 1992.

The CBI which is investigating the case had questioned him earlier.

The CBI had arrested two priests, Fr Thomas Kottoor, Chancellor of the Kottayam Archdiocese of the Catholic Church, and Fr Jose Puthrukkayil, Principal of a college run by the Church, along with nun Sr Sephi on November 19 in connection with the alleged murder of Sr Abhaya.

They are on a 14-day remand in the CBI custody now.

UNI PMM PD RN2135