Crime Branch takes over probe into Govindchamy’s escape from Kannur Central Jail

The State Crime Branch has formally taken over the investigation into the escape of rape and murder case convict Govindachamy from Kannur Central Jail. A detailed probe will begin on Thursday (September 25, 2025) with the agency examining possible lapses in security and assistance in the jailbreak.

Govindachamy escaped from the prison in the early hours of July 25 but was arrested within hours by the Kannur Town police. The investigation was initially handled by the local police before being transferred to the Crime branch following an order issued by the State Police Chief two weeks ago.

Kannur Town Inspector Sreejith Koderi has since handed over the case documents to Kannur Crime Branch SP P. Balakrishnan Nair, who has conducted preliminary reviews of the files.

As part of the probe, the Crime Branch has sought court permission to interrogate Govindachamy who is now lodged at Viyyur Jail in Thrissur. Officials said the accused will be questioned inside the jail and his custody will be sought if required. Prison staff and fellow inmates will also be questioned.

The investigation will look into whether the convict cut through the iron bars of his cell, whether others assisted him and if there were lapses in the early police probe.

Govindachamy, a life convict, was sentenced in the 2011 for the rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman. On February 1 that year, he attacked the woman inside the women’s compartment of the Ernakulam-Shornur passenger train. The assault continued outside the train leading to her death on February 6. Initially sentenced to death, his punishment was later reduced to life imprisonment.