Tiruppur Murder: Tamil Nadu Cops Shot Dead Accused Manikandan In Encounter

Manikantan, implicated in the murder of SSI Shanmugavel, was fatally shot by Tamil Nadu Police in Tiruppur during an encounter after he attacked officers. His family members were also arrested as tensions rise in the community.

Updated: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 12:50 [IST]

The Tamil Nadu Police on Wednesday shot dead Manikandan, one of the accused in the murder of Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) Shanmugavel in Tiruppur district. The incident occurred during an encounter when Manikantan allegedly attacked a Sub-Inspector and tried to escape while being taken to retrieve the murder weapon.

Manikandan's father, Murthy, and brother Thangapandian were arrested by police on Wednesday in connection with the case. Manikandan's body is sent to Tiruppur Government Hospital under tight security due to heightened tensions in the area.

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Tamil Nadu Police fatally shot Manikandan, an accused in the murder of SSI Shanmugavel in Tiruppur district, during an encounter near Upparu Dam while retrieving the murder weapon; his father and brother were also arrested. The incident occurred after Shanmugavel was killed with a sickle at a plantation in Sikkanoothu village following a dispute involving Manikandan and his family.

Details of the Encounter

The police took Manikandan to a water stream near Upparu Dam at Chikkanur, close to Gudimangalam. This location was where he allegedly disposed of the sickle used in the crime. While there, he reportedly attacked an SI named Saravanakumar and attempted to flee, prompting police to open fire.

On Tuesday night, SSI Shanmugavel was killed at a plantation owned by Madathukulam MLA Mahendran in Sikkanoothu village. The altercation began when Manikandan and his family were involved in a dispute under the influence of alcohol. Neighbours alerted authorities through an emergency helpline.

The Murder Incident

Shanmugavel and Constable Azhagu Raja responded to the call around 11 pm while on patrol duty nearby. Upon arrival, Shanmugavel intervened and arranged for Murthy to be taken to a hospital via ambulance. Enraged by this intervention, Manikandan attacked Shanmugavel with a sickle, killing him instantly.

Following the attack on Shanmugavel, Manikandan and his family allegedly attempted to assault Constable Azhagu Raja and the farm manager. Both managed to escape and alert other police officials about the situation.

The events have created a tense atmosphere in the region as authorities continue their investigation into this tragic incident. The community remains on edge as they await further developments from law enforcement officials regarding this case.