Tamil Nadu: Accused In Armstrong Murder Killed In Encounter
K Thiruvengatam, an accused in the murder of Tamil Nadu BSP leader Armstrong, was killed by Chennai police in an encounter on Sunday, July 14, near Madhavaram. Police claim Thiruvengatam attacked them and attempted to flee, prompting them to open fire, reported The News Minute.
Thiruvengatam had allegedly confessed to supplying weapons and country-made bombs used in Armstrong’s murder on July 5. He was reportedly the first to attack Armstrong. A known history-sheeter, Thiruvengatam was also involved in three other murders.
Since July 11, Thiruvengatam and 10 others have been in police custody by order of the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Egmore. The group includes V Ponnai Balu (the prime accused), K Manivannan, D Ramu, J Santhosh, S Thirumalai, G Arul, and D Selvaraj, who surrendered shortly after the murder, as well as Gokul, Vijay, and Sivasakthi, who were arrested later.
Armstrong, a prominent Buddhist Ambedkarite and local leader, was hacked to death on July 5 outside his Perambur home. His murder sparked criticism of the Chennai police over law and order.
On July 9, Chief Minister MK Stalin assured Armstrong’s widow that those involved would face severe punishment. He ordered an investigation into the murder, which occurred on July 5 evening near Perambur. Following the murder, supporters demanded justice, labeling it a “planned murder.”
Stalin had vowed on social media to find and punish those behind the crime. He visited Armstrong’s residence, paying tribute and expressing condolences to Armstrong’s wife, Porkodi.
Police believe the murder was retaliation for the killing of gangster Arcot Suresh last year. However, BSP activists allege a deeper conspiracy. The investigation also involves looking into the political links to the Aarudhra gold scam.
Armstrong was usually surrounded by over ten people but was accompanied by only two on the day of his murder. Despite having a licensed gun for safety, he reportedly left it at home that day.
